Football

How Illinois Football Can Continue Strong Play vs Rutgers

How Illinois Football can conquer Rutgers in Piscataway.

Published

2 weeks ago

November 22, 2024

Oct 25, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights head coach Greg Schiano talks with place kicker Riley McCann (97) in the first half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Threats and Opportunities For Illinois Football vs Rutgers

(7-3) Illinois Football is currently preparing to take on the Rutgers Scarlett Knights on the Road, following a convincing 38-16 win over Michigan State in week 12.

If Illinois were to take down Greg Schiano’s 6-4 squad in Piscataway, it would undoubtedly set up the Fighting Illini well for a possible 9-3 finish pending a win over the mightily struggling Northwestern Wildcats at Wrigley Field. Additionally, a win would almost certainly solidify the Illini’s chances for a trip to Orlando to compete in the Orange Bowl.

What challenges await Illinois Football in their quest for a second 8+ win season under Bret Bielema?

Nov 2, 2024; Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

What the Illini Must Avoid In Piscataway

Know the name Kyle Monangai.

In 10 games this season thus far, Monangai has already racked up 197 carries and rushed for 1,028 total yards for Rutgers. At 5’9, 209 pounds, Monangai combines shiftiness and speed to make guys miss in the second level to break off big plays. He is the consistent workhorse of the Scarlett Knights’ offense, and with the Illini’s recent struggles at the Linebacker position, there is a really good chance Kyle could make Illinois pay on the road.

Could Dylan Rosiek’s absence become glairing for the Fighting Illini, as they look to contain the talented rusher?

Where Illinois Football Must Take Advantage

Illinois offensive line is heating up following a really solid performance against Michigan State.

The Fighting Illini’s font 5 didn’t surrender a single sack vs Sparty and powered the run game to 138 yards, and 3 scores in Illinois’s 38-16 victory. Heading into their matchup in Piscataway, the big guy’s continued success will be crucial against a struggling Rutgers front 7.

Injuries have plagued the Scarlett Knight’s defense, leading to inconsistent play throughout 2024. Joe Harasymiak’s squad ranks 91st nationally, with just 17 sacks this season, exposing their struggles to pressure opposing quarterbacks. Comparatively, Illinois is currently tied for 26th in the nation, with 27 sacks.

If the Illini keep Luke Altmyer clean, expect another strong performance from Ithe llinois offense.

Nov 2, 2024; Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

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Kirkland Chappell

Kirkland is an expert source for Illinois athletics news. He is the lead Football analyst at Armchair Illini and has been featured in top media publications like Bleacher Report, Yard Barker, Autograph, Newsbreak, CBS Sports and more.