Illinois is coming off a tough loss to Duke at home in Gies Memorial Stadium and needs a "get right" game before opening Big Ten play against Ohio State next week. Luckily, the Illini have the perfect opponent for that this week with Southern Illinois up.
Defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck needs a solid game out of his defense after the last two weeks have resulted in questionable performances. The defense allowed the UAB game to be closer than expected and had no answer for Duke running back Nate Sheppard.
The offense could use a bit of an explosive game as well, especially when it comes to getting the other wide receivers involved besides Collin Dixon. The third-year pass-catcher is by far the favorite target for ECU transfer QB Katin Houser, but it's time other receivers and tight ends start getting some love.
So, with Illinois a heavy favorite this week, it is the perfect time to fine-tune those little growing pains before the gauntlet of conference play begins.
Final odds for Southern Illinois vs. Illinois in Week 3
Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook
Spread
- Southern Illinois: +39.5 (-110)
- Illinois: -39.5 (-110)
Moneyline
- Southern Illinois: +8000
- Illinois: N/A
Total
- O/U: 54.5 (-115/-105)
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' defense will step up and play the bully ball Bret Bielema is known for
Illinois's defense is stacked with some stars in the secondary, which is the focus of Hauck's 3-3-5 scheme. The front defensive line may not be as loaded, but if Hauck can call up some looks to get the defensive backs to blitz and force pressure on the quarterback, this defense could get back into business.
With players like Matthew Bailey, Xavier Scott, and Juice Clark, this defense should not be struggling as much as it is. The tackling issue that was evident against UAB was a little better against Duke, but this defense is still struggling to get into a rhythm and get stops when needed.
Southern Illinois is the perfect opponent for this defense to work through its issues and gain some momentum and confidence before Big Ten play. Facing Ohio State to start conference play isn't easy, but if Illinois can have a big game as predicted by the odds, it could put the Illini on a good track ot make things difficult for the Buckeyes.
I predict that Illinois will come out with a chip on its shoulder this week, and anything standing in their way, Southern Illinois to be exact, should watch out.
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