Central Michigan Chippewas vs
Illinois Fighting IlliniPredictions & Preview

Illinois Fighting Illini Favored to Defeat Central Michigan Chippewas in College Football Showdown on September 14th

The upcoming college football game on September 14th will feature the Fighting Illini of Illinois facing off against Central Michigan in Champaign. Central Michigan will be looking to bounce back from a recent loss, while Illinois aims to continue their winning streak. The game will be broadcasted live on Peacock for fans to enjoy. Illinois is currently the betting favorite with a -18.5 opening line that has remained unchanged.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Chippewas +713 | Fighting Illini -1150
• Spread: Chippewas +18.5 (-110) | Fighting Illini -18.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 49.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Illinois will win straight-up is 92%.

Central Michigan vs Illinois Stats

Central Michigan Chippewas

Central Michigan suffered a significant defeat against Florida International, marked by critical turnovers and penalties. The Chippewas struggled with six turnovers, including five interceptions, leading to a commanding lead by FIU. Despite outgaining FIU in total yardage, the Chippewas' turnovers proved costly. Myles Bailey led the rushing attack with 54 yards, while Elijah Rikard topped the defense with seven tackles.

In terms of their offensive balance, Central Michigan ranks 93rd nationally in rush play percentage, achieving 4.5 yards per rush and averaging 40.0 rushes per game. Their passing game ranks 39th in play percentage, but with a low completion rate and yards per pass. Defensively, they allow 52.0 points per game but limit opponents to 309.0 yards per game. They excel on third downs but struggle with opponent scoring in the red zone.

With a power ranking of 95, Central Michigan is ranked 6 in offense, 40 in defense, and are 1-1 this season.

Illinois Fighting Illini Analysis

The Illinois Fighting Illini secured a thrilling 23-17 victory against No. 19 Kansas in a sold-out Memorial Stadium last Saturday, marking their first sellout since 2016 and a significant home win against a ranked opponent since 2019. The defense stood out with three interceptions, including a pick-six and a forced fumble by Xavier Scott, who also contributed eight solo tackles. Zakhari Franklin led offensively with nine receptions for 99 yards, while Pat Bryant made key catches during a fourth-quarter touchdown drive. David Olano was perfect on field goals, converting kicks from 23, 43, and 50 yards. The team's emphasis on the rushing game this season is evident, executing 55.74% of their plays on the ground, though they only gain 2.3 yards per rush. In the passing game, they have a 64.00% completion rate and average 7.7 yards per pass. Defensively, they allow 17.0 points per game and struggle on third downs with a 46.15% opponent conversion rate. The Fighting Illini currently hold a power ranking of 73 and are #35 for offense and #3 for defense, with a 2-0 record overall. Central Michigan has gone 0-0 in their last three matchups against Illinois.

Illinois Fighting Illini Set to Dominate in NCAA Matchup Against Central Michigan Chippewas

The Illinois Fighting Illini football team has demonstrated a solid performance this season, with an average of 23.0 points per game placing them 67th nationally. On the defensive side, they allow 17.0 points per game, ranking them 40th. They average 271.0 yards per game offensively (103rd) and allow 327.0 yards per game defensively (59th). With 0.377 points per play, they rank 59th, while allowing 0.258 points per play, placing them at 40th. Furthermore, they gain 4.4 yards per play (93rd) and allow 5.0 yards per play (56th). Despite their undefeated record against the spread this season, their historical performance ATS since 2023 is 5-9. They have faced challenges at home and after wins, with a 2-7 ATS record at home and a 2-4 record after wins. On the other hand, the Central Michigan Chippewas have shown room for improvement, with an average of 16.0 points per game (96th) and allowing 52.0 points per game (124th). Their offensive statistics include 369.0 yards per game (60th), while defensively conceding 309.0 yards per game (48th). They have a 1-1 record ATS this season and struggle to cover as the away team. Since 2023, they hold a 2-6 record ATS on the road and are 2-4 in games following a loss. While showing a balanced record of 3-3 in non-conference games, they have yet to establish themselves as a reliable betting option. In this competitive NCAA matchup, the Illinois Fighting Illini appear to be the better choice for wagering.

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