In Reply to: Big Test for the Defense posted by donutello on November 12, 2026 at 17:39:41
Against common opponents (MD, OR, MichST, Pur), Illinois has averaged 24 points scored while giving up 22.
We have averaged 38 points scored while giving up 16.
I think our defense will be a big test for them!
In the last four weeks they gave up 37 to Michigan St and 17 to Maryland, two of the worst teams in the conference. They did have a nice day against Oregon.
Illinois has given up the most yards passing in conference (counting only conference games), and is middle of the pack in rushing yards.
If we can run on them, it will really open up the passing game and we will win.