What Illinois Football must correct before Minnesota game

Illinois Football is poised to close out a favorable final quarter to their 2024 schedule, despite coming off a 38-9 loss to No. 1 Oregon on the road.  At 6-2, upcoming matchups against Minnesota, Michigan State, Rutgers, and Northwestern present the Fighting Illini with a glowing opportunity to reach double-digit wins as a program for the first time since 2001.

However, following a blowout in Eugene, there are some reasonable concerns for this Illinois Football team entering week 10 against (5-3) Minnesota.

Oct 26, 2024;  Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Concern For Illinois Football

The biggest concern that Illinois football must correct is the amount of yards given up and the turnover margin they have been losing.

Last 4 Games for Illinois

@ #3 (no.9 at time of play) Penn State – 374 yards allowed – 0 turnovers (Turnover Margin: 2-0 Penn St.)

Vs Purdue – 536 yards allowed – 0 turnovers (Turnover Margin: 1-0 Purdue)

Vs Michigan – 267 yards allowed – 3 Turnovers (Turnover Margin: 3-0 ILL)

@ #1 Oregon – 527 yards allowed – 1 Turnover (Turnover Margin: 2-1 Oregon

Despite a dominant showing against a Michigan team with major quarterback issues, these are eye-opening stats for the Fighting Illini defense.

The Illini’s current inconsistencies certainly are not the Bret Bielema standard of “Tough, Smart, and Dependable” football. The Illini can’t expect to finish strong while also allowing over 500+ yards of total offense, as well as losing turnover margin battles. In addition, avoidable obstacles such as poor tackling and costly penalties are concerning trends.

On a positive note, Gabe Jacas and the Illini defensive front are starting to get home and force more pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which is a step forward. The question is, can Illinois pull it all together, and become a somewhat consistent unit?

Illinois can not afford to slip while they have opportunity and reasonable momentum within the program. The path to a 10-2 season is well within reach for Illinois Football. However, Aaron Henry’s unit must tighten up and deliver consistent performances to make it happen.

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