How Illinois Football can defeat the defending National Champions

Illinois Football is staring down the most highly anticipated game in the program’s recent history. A sold-out Memorial Stadium will bear witness as the no. 22 Fighting Illini take on the defending national champion Michigan Wolverines in Champaign. Additionally, Saturday’s matchup will serve as the 100th-anniversary rededication of Memorial Stadium.

A ranked matchup vs no. 24 Michigan presents an excellent opportunity for the Illini to solidify their current 5-1 resume. Additionally, Illinois can clinch bowl eligibility with a win. A feat which has not been done in Champaign since 2011. The hunt for a previously unfathomable 9-10 win season is still within reach for Illinois Football. However, the Illini must first take down the Wolverines in a pivotal test.

According to ESPN, the Illini are currently -3.5 underdogs at home.

Sep 7, 2024. Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

Threat From Michigan

It’s no secret that Illinois Football has struggled to stop the run. Saturday’s matchup is a test of will for Terrance Jamison’s defensive line to step up to the plate, and make an impact vs an extremely talented Wolverines backfield, consisting of future pros Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards. A must-show for Gabe Jacas and Seth Coleman, who despite such talent, have thus far been underwhelming in 2024.

However, Offensive line play is going to determine whether or not the Illini will have a fighting chance. It’s one thing to struggle to stop the run, but if Illinois O-Line struggles to keep Luke Altmyer clean, the Illini won’t have a chance from the jump. Michigan has a loaded defensive front, riddled with NFL talent, which is a major concern.

Edge rusher Josaiah Stewart, who has 5 sacks, currently leads the Big Ten, along with 14 solo tackles and a forced fumble. Interior starters Mason Graham (11 solo, 3.5 sacks) and Kenneth Grant (8 solo, 2 Sacks) , both standing 6’3 and weighing around 330 pounds, are projected as day 1-2 NFL draft picks. The Wolverines D-line has been a dominant force, and if not handled properly, they will keep the Illini offense on the sideline, and control time of possession.

Do the Illini have an answer up front, after some shaky performances in 2024? Rest assured, if Illinois gets dominated in the trenches on BOTH sides of the ball, it is going to be a long day.

An insight from Michigan Football experts: Credit to Blue by Ninety (bluebyninety.com)

Illinois has to force turnovers. Michigan has turned it over 5 times in their 2 losses. Additionally, convert on 3rd downs. Michigan was elite at getting off the field on 3rd down in 2023 but has struggled this far. Force Michigan into 3rd and longs. Simply because Michigan’s offense just is not built to pick up chunk yardage.

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