Illinois Football: Three Predictions vs The Minnesota Golden Gophers

With four important games ahead, Illinois Football faces a tough challenge as Minnesota arrives in Champaign on a hot streak. The No. 24 Illini will defend their home turf against P.J. Fleck’s team, who have won three consecutive Big Ten games. (USC, UCLA, Maryland). After a convincing 48-23 victory over Maryland, the Golden Gophers will look to keep their momentum rolling.

Illinois must win out if they want to achieve ten wins. Bret Bielema and his team are hungry for a historic season. In doing so, a 10-2 final record would give the Illini their first double-digit win season since 2001 under Ron Tuner.

Standing in their way is a hungry Minnesota team eager to make a splash on the road against a ranked opponent. As Illinois prepares for this key matchup, here are three bold predictions for the Illini’s showdown with the Golden Gophers.

Oct 19, 2024;  Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

1) 75+ Yards, And A Score For Adian Laughery

The standout strength of Minnesota’s defense this season has been their secondary. With Illinois potentially down star wide receiver Pat Bryant, the Illini may need to lean more heavily on the run game to secure a win. Sophomore Aidan Laughery, stepping up due to starter Kaden Feagin’s season-ending injury, has taken on a more prominent role in Barry Lunney Jr.’s offense.

While there have been some inconsistencies, Laughery has shown progress over the last three games:

• 10/12 vs. Purdue: 26 yards
• 10/19 vs. Michigan: 54 yards
• 10/26 vs. Oregon: 69 yards

After a solid showing in Eugene, watch for #21 to continue his growth against Minnesota’s skilled but opportunistic front seven. With a solid performance from the offensive line at home, I predict Laughery combines for 75 total yards and a touchdown in this key matchup.

Aug 29, 2024; Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Malik Elzy Game?

Star wide receiver, Pat Bryant, will be available after suffering an injury vs Oregon. However, will he be at full strength?

While we can expect steady contributions from Alex Capka-Jones, Collin Dixon, and Hank Beatty, there is a strong possibility Malik Elzy could emerge as a big-play threat for the Illini. So far, Elzy has tallied 66 yards and a touchdown and may see more chances if Bryant is sidelined.

If Bryant is out, Minnesota’s secondary would undoubtedly shift their focus to Zakhari Franklin, who has 444 yards and a touchdown on the season. This attention to Franklin could open the door for Elzy to step in and make some big plays for the Illini. Luke

Given the circumstances, QB Luke Altmyer could certainly look to the big, talented sophomore to help move the chains and pick up chunk yardage. In a game where every drive counts, Elzy might be the unforeseen difference-maker for Illinois Football.

Illinois Football Wins

Final Score Prediction: Illinois 27 Minnesota 24

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