Can Juice end Wolverine hex?
October 3, 2008 8:41 AM
Nothing is easy in college football, least of all trying to avoid an 0-2 start in Big Ten play at Michigan Stadium. Illinois (2-2, 0-1) travels to Ann Arbor Saturday for the first time since 2003. The Illini come in attempting to break the Wolverines' 6-game winning streak in a series that has been historically dominated by Michigan.
The struggling Wolverines (2-2, 1-0) appeared to be headed for a 1-3 hole, until a miraculous comeback against Wisconsin boosted the team's spirits and gave confidence to their young quarterback.
The Illini come in with a lot of firepower. Juice Williams continues to lead the Big Ten in total offense (297 yd/g). Daniel Dufrene is 6th in rushing (99 yd/g), and Arrelious Benn is 4th in receptions (4.75/g). Michigan's stout D is 2nd in the league in rushing defense (88 yd/g).
When Michigan has the ball, it will be a battle of the Big Ten's worse scoring offense versus the Big Ten's worse scoring defense. Despite being ranked 10th or 11th in the league in most major offensive categories, the Wolverines have done an excellent job of protecting the quarterback (3 sacks given up in 4 games).
Both teams have plenty of weaknesses to address. The Illini's strength—their offensive playmakers—will be the major difference of the game. After falling against two elite opponents, the Illini get their first good win of the season.
Illinois 28 Michigan 24
Illinois-Michigan Thread Filed under: Illini Football, Michigan Wolverines
