Illinois football is coming off a game against Southern Illinois that was needed.
The Illini gave up the game against Duke, so we needed a confidence builder. There were times against the Salukis that worried me, especially when we gave up 10 points. Overall, it was a solid win.
Illinois’ defense settled into the game and had some solid drives. The offense was able to spread the ball around and hit a myriad of pass catchers. While the good feelings of that win were nice, what we face this week is a whole different animal.
Ohio State is waiting patiently in Columbus. They are looking to open the Big Ten season with a bang, and the opportunity to put up a big number is there for the taking.
The Buckeyes are 2-1 this season, and the one loss was a frustrating one. They are going to do everything in their power to impress the College Football Playoff committee, so that means they are going to try to put a number up each week.
Illinois needs to be ready for this Ohio State wave of offense. It is going to pack a punch early and often.
Final odds for Illinois vs Ohio State in Week 4
Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook
Spread
- Illinois: +27.5 points (-115)
- Ohio State: -27.5 points (-105)
Moneyline
- Illinois: +1600
- Ohio State: -4500
Total
- O/U: 53.5 points
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Illinois is going to need to control the clock on offense to keep Ohio State’s juggernaut offense off the field to have any chance on Saturday
This is a matchup between two teams that have very different feelings right now. Ohio State took their anger out on blowing a big game against No. 1 Texas, while Illinois just hopes our defense doesn’t give up 1,000 points.
Ohio State is one of the best teams, if not the best team, in the country. They are going up against an Illinois defense that is extremely soft in the middle and has given up quite a few yards and points to opponents.
Illinois is going to need to keep the Buckeyes’ offense off the field. The main way to do that is to control the game clock.
Katin Houser and the Illinois running game are our only hope to keep this contest close. They have the ability to play well and move the ball down the field.
When the dust settles, the biggest stat in the game could end up being third down conversions. If the Illini can convert on third down at a high percentage, then we have a chance to keep it close or even shock the world. If there are too many three-and-outs, Illinois’ defense will get torched.
My guess is the latter of the two. While Illinois might be able to put up 20-27 points, I think the defense will give up 40+ on Saturday. This is going to be a tough watch at times.
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