Wisconsin Badgers vs Fighting Illini: Injury Woes Make Winning Outcome Uncertain
This Saturday, two teams from the West Division of the meet up on the gridiron as they look to earn a victory in the Land of Lincoln. Wisconsin, who was beaten 15-6 at home
Game outlook
This Saturday, two teams from the West Division of the meet up on the gridiron as they look to earn a victory in the Land of Lincoln. Wisconsin, who was beaten 15-6 at home by Iowa last Saturday, will be on the road to face the Fighting Illini of Illinois. Illinois recently won their last match up against Maryland 27-24 on the road, making them 13-point underdogs. The all-time series between the teams favors the Badgers 44-39-7, though the most recent matchup was an Illinois win last October. Wisconsin are the favorites with an opening line of -4.5, currently sitting at -2.5.
Game Info
When: Saturday, 10/21/2023 @ 3:30pm EST
Where: Memorial Stadium Stadium Badgers vs Fighting Illini Betting Odds Moneyline: Badgers -135 | Fighting Illini +115
Spread: Badgers -2.5 (-110) | Fighting Illini +2.5 (-110)
Total: Over/Under 42 (-110)
Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Wisconsin will win straight-up is 57%.
Wisconsin Badgers
This week’s matchup with Iowa cost Wisconsin more than a spot in the standings, as they fell to a 4-2 record overall and 2-1 record in the Big Ten, leaving them second in the West Division. The Badgers trailed 7-0 from the start and failed to score in second half, ultimately taking a 13-6 loss to the Hawkeyes. They had a slim advantage in total offense (332-237), as well as 18 first downs compared to Iowa’s nine, yet weren’t able to capitalize on either. Additionally, they gave up a safety while not registering a takeaway and had two turnovers to their name. Overall power ranking: 39 Offense ranking: 52 Average points scored per game: 31.40 Defense ranking: 27 Average points conceded per game: 18.40 Overall season record: 4-2 (2-4 ATS) The loss of quarterback Tanner Mordecai to a broken hand has placed more of an emphasis on Braelon Allen and Braedyn Locke, who are compensating in preparation for the upcoming games. Will Pauling leads the team in receiving with 30 catches for 303 yards, while Chimere Dike (15 receptions, 272 yards), Bryson Green (15 grabs, 204 yards) and Skyler Bell (17 catches, 131 yards) have put up impressive numbers as well. Nathanial Vakos is 10 of 11 in field goals with a long of 52, and 17 of 17 on extra points. In addition to Mordecai, Mellusi (broken fibula) is out for the season.