Illinois Football: Week 11 Bowl Predictions

Bowl Predictions For Illinois Football Following 2 Consecutive Losses

Illinois Football has fallen out of the AP Top 25 following losses to #1 Oregon and a surging Minnesota team. However, after two consecutive defeats, some analysts remain optimistic about the 6-3 Illini. Outlets such as Sports Illustrated predict a strong finish for Illinois, which could secure them a spot in a notable bowl game following the new year.

If the Illini were to take care of business vs 3 winnable opponents, it would be the program’s first 9+ win season since the 2007-08 Rose Bowl Team.

Prediction

According to the latest bowl projections from Sports Illustrated, Illinois Football is projected to head east to take on veteran coach Pat Narduzzi and the Pitt Panthers in the Dukes Mayo Bowl.

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

Notes On the Pitt Panthers

Head Coach: Pat Narduzzi

Current Record: 7-1 (3-1 in ACC)

ACC Rankings: 4th 

Best Win: 41-13 over Syracuse 

Worst Loss: 48-25 to SMU

Narduzzi’s squad has been hot thus far in 2024. However, a look at Pitt’s schedule reveals that the team hasn’t faced many challenges. While their standout 41-13 victory over Syracuse (ranked 6th in the ACC) is notable, wins over teams like Kent State, Cincinnati, West Virginia, Youngstown State, North Carolina, and Cal don’t add as much strength to their record. After a tough loss to SMU, Pitt now needs a statement win. With key matchups against Clemson and Louisville ahead, the Panthers have prime opportunities to boost their resume.

Nov 2, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers head coach Pat Narduzzi argues a call during the second half against the Southern Methodist Mustangs at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

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