Illinois Fighting Illini vs
Nebraska CornhuskersPredictions & Preview

Big Ten Showdown: 24th-ranked Illinois Fighting Illini set to take on 22nd-ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers in anticipated matchup

This weekend features a highly anticipated Big Ten matchup between the 24th-ranked Illinois Fighting Illini and the 22nd-ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers. Nebraska holds an advantage in the head-to-head series and is coming off a recent victory against Illinois. The game is set for Friday night at 8:00 ET in Lincoln, NE. Nebraska is favored to win, with the current line at -7.5.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Fighting Illini +262 | Cornhuskers -330
• Spread: Fighting Illini +7.5 (-110) | Cornhuskers -7.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 42.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Nebraska will win straight-up is 77%.

Illinois vs Nebraska Stats

Illinois Fighting Illini

Illinois football, under the leadership of head coach Bret Bielema, has made significant strides in the Big Ten conference and beyond. In his fourth year, Bielema has compiled a 21-19 record, leading the team to one bowl game in 2022. The team is currently off to a strong start with a 3-0 record, showcasing a potent offense averaging 26.5 points per game. Quarterback Luke Altmyer has been impressive, throwing for 647 yards and six touchdowns without any interceptions. The rushing game led by Kaden Feagin and the receiving corps led by Pat Bryant have also contributed to the team's success. Defensively, Illinois ranks 22nd in scoring defense, allowing only 13.0 points per game and forcing nine turnovers. Overall, with a number 63 power ranking, Illinois sits at number 52 in offense and number 20 in defense, with a perfect 3-0 record for the season.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Analysis

Nebraska football is on the rise with a strong start to the season under coach Matt Rhule. Freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola has been impressive, leading the offense with support from running backs Dante Dowdell and Emmett Johnson. The defense, coordinated by Tony White, is performing well, ranking ninth in the country for points allowed and 13th for sacks per game. The Cornhuskers have a power ranking of 49 and are currently undefeated at 3-0. Their upcoming matchup against Illinois favors Nebraska based on recent performances.

Illini poised for an upset in close matchup against Nebraska

This upcoming ranked battle for week four presents an intriguing matchup. However, upon careful consideration from a betting standpoint, the spread of 8.5 points seems excessively high. Supporting the Illini plus the points appears to be a wise choice. Nebraska's recent victories over Colorado, UTEP, and Northern Iowa do not impress me significantly. The upcoming game against a formidable Illini defense led by coach Bret Bielema poses a challenge for Nebraska's freshman quarterback. In contrast, the Illini's junior quarterback, Luke Altmyer, has already demonstrated his abilities with a quality win over a ranked Kansas team. While Nebraska may emerge victorious, the game is anticipated to be a closely contested Big Ten matchup. Therefore, my preference leans towards supporting the Illini, who are receiving more than a full possession in this matchup.

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