Illinois Football: Biggest Threat and Opportunity vs Penn State

Illinois Football is nearing ever closer to a highly anticipated ranked primetime matchup in College Park, PA. It is a crucial next step for Penn State on a boom-or-bust course to the 2024 college football playoff.

For Illinois, it’s another chance to shock the college football world, maximizing a potentially special season for the program. There will be opportunities for the Illini to take control of this game, however, it will be a monumental challenge.

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

Penn State Threat

Andy Kotelnicki has a plethora of talent to work with on the Nittany Lions offense. According to Bret Bielema, Penn State will be the most impressive group that Illinois has faced thus far between the tackles. It’s a big test for the Illini front 7 to slow down running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen behind the offensive line. The scouting report will tell you that Illinois’ defense needs to key in on the run game and make Drew Allar beat you through the air.

If accomplished, my main concern from that point for Illinois Football would be Tyler Warren.

The Penn State senior is in close competition with Michigan star Colston Loveland for the top tight ends in the Big Ten. Through 3 games, Warren has snagged 2 touchdowns on 16 receptions, for a total of 226 receiving yards. In addition, Tyler is currently the statistical leader of Penn State’s receiving core.

Can Illinois linebackers, and secondary unit keep tabs on the future NFL Draft pick, as well as slow down the run game? Or, will Warren make this a game of sacrifice for the Fighting Illini defense, and be a drive extender?

Opportunity for Illinois Football

It’s certainly worth noting that Penn State’s defense will be without star safety KJ Winston Jr. Nittany Lions Head Coach James Franklin told media that the future pro’s undisclosed injury is long-term, making him unavailable for Illinois. No doubt, KJ’s loss is a huge hole in the secondary.

Additionally, edge rusher Abdul Carter has moved up to the defensive line, from his previous position of linebacker. Which of course, creates even more shuffle for Tom Allen‘s defense. Early in the season, can expose issues, especially when facing your toughest opponent to date, in a high-pressure environment.

Can Illinois offense therefore execute on some glaring opportunities from the early season shuffling, keeping this game close until the end? Luke Altmyer has been crisp thus far, putting the Illini’s offense in a position to win games, and undoubtedly would be dangerous in this scenario.

Can Illinois offense expose, execute, and close the deal?

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