Illinois Football: 3 Predictions vs The Michigan Wolverines

A Look Into Possibilities for Illinois Football vs Michigan

Here are my three predictions for what we might see as the Illini take on the defending national champions.

 

Jan 8, 2024; Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

 

1. An Xavier Scott Bounce Back Interception

Xavier Scott‘s absence was deeply felt in last week’s game against Purdue. With Illinois’ defensive line struggling to generate pressure, the burden fell on the Illini secondary to step up and force crucial stops. After allowing nearly 300 passing yards and 46 points in the second half against the Boilermakers, Illinois needs to reinvigorate its defensive backs unit. Bringing Xavier Scott—who has already recorded four turnovers this season—back into the lineup will undoubtedly provide a much-needed boost.

Michigan has struggled to generate offense through the air, and with turnover-prone transfer Jack Tuttle starting against the Illini, expect Illinois’ defensive backs to aggressively hunt for much-needed takeaways. Xavier has been a ballhawk this season, and I predict he’ll add another INT against Tuttle.

2. Luke Altmyer Air Raid

Michigan’s woes in the passing game have seemingly leaked onto the defensive side of the ball as well. Thus far, the Wolverines secondary has allowed an average of 207.5 yards per game (1,245 total) through the air in the first half of the season. In their last 3 performances alone, Michigan’s secondary has given up a staggering 856 total passing yards.

Last 3 Performances:  USC – 283 yards allowed    Minnesota – 258 yards allowed    Washington – 315 yards allowed

Luke Altmyer has been one of the Big Ten’s top quarterbacks through the first half of the 2024 season. The Illini signal-caller boasts a 14-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio and an admirable 73.2 QBR. With a skilled group of wide receivers at his disposal, Altmyer should be able to produce strong numbers against Michigan’s struggling secondary.

Of course, that is if Illinois’ offensive line can protect him from a defensive front stacked with future NFL draft picks.

3. Illini Pull the Huge Upset

Originally, I planning to predict this game as a loss for Illinois Football. Despite a somewhat disheveled start, Michigan has so much NFL talent on their roster. Additionally, the Illini are going to have their toughest battle of the season in the trenches on both sides of the ball, and at times, it’s not gonna be pretty. After a near-collapse against Purdue, it was difficult to envision Illinois pulling off a win.

However, in a sold out home field advantage, with favorable momentum, I can’t get myself to pick against Luke Altmyer. Michigan’s current quarterback situation is a mess, and unless backup Jack Tuttle plays really well, there is no solidified leader of the Wolverines offense. For a defense that is giving up 24+ points a game vs power 4 opponents, it’s a recipe for losses. This game means so much for the Illinois Football program, and if Altmyer is sharp on Saturday, Illinois can pull off the upset.

Predicted Final Score: Illinois 31 – Michigan 27

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