3. Unleash Gabe Jacas in the Michigan State backfield
Illinois has some talented players on the defensive side of the ball. You can look at all levels and point to someone who is going to play on Sundays.
When the dust settles, I believe Gabe Jacas is the most sure-fire NFL talent, though. He is a menace on defense, and his numbers bear out this season. He has 52 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles through nine games.
Michigan State is not good at protecting quarterback Aidan Chiles. They are giving up 3.1 sacks per game, which ranks No. 116 in the country. That number alone makes me think Illinois’ defense, particularly Jacas, could have a big game.
Moreover, Jacas feasts on the pass rush. While his run defense numbers are down, Jacas has a 77.8 grade by Pro Football Focus when it comes to the pass rush. That is good enough to rank No. 88 out of 850 edge rushers in all levels of college football.
Jacas brings great speed and strength to the table in his pass rush. It is hard for the bigger offensive tackles who can’t move as well to slow him down coming around the line. Jacas’ ability to put pressure on Chilies is going to be huge. I fully expect at least two sacks and numerous quarterback hurries on Saturday.