The No. 22 Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-0) will kick off their Big Ten season on Friday as they host the No. 24 Illinois Fighting Illini (3-0) at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska has showcased a strong performance this season, outscoring opponents 102-20 in their first three games, including a commanding 34-3 victory against Northern Iowa last week. Meanwhile, Illinois has also been formidable, especially defensively, allowing just 8.7 points per game, and they come off a 30-9 win over Central Michigan.
Historically, Nebraska leads the series with 14 wins, 6 losses, and 1 tie, and both teams are undefeated against the spread thus far this season.
Kickoff is slated for 8 p.m. ET. Nebraska is favored by 9.5 points in the latest odds, with an over/under of 42.5 points. Gambling enthusiasts are advised to consider the insights from expert Jimmie Kaylor at SportsLine, who has a wealth of experience covering college football and NFL.
Kaylor had a remarkably successful 2023 season in college football, achieving a record of 107-45-2 while earning 57.9 units for bettors. He now has focused his analysis on the Nebraska vs. Illinois matchup, sharing his predictions and picks on SportsLine.
Several factors point to Nebraska’s potential for covering the spread. Their defense, known as the Blackshirts, has only allowed a mere 20 points across three games and is limiting opposing teams to just 70.3 rushing yards per game, along with accumulating nine sacks. Offensively, true freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola has been impressive with a completion rate of 73.8%, totaling 670 yards, five touchdowns, and just one interception. Nebraska’s running game, led by sophomore Dante Dowdell, contributes an average of 171.3 yards per game.
On the flip side, Illinois exhibits a defensive style reminiscent of Bret Bielema’s Wisconsin teams, characterized by physicality and effectiveness. Junior defensive back Xavier Scott has been a standout, boasting three interceptions, a forced fumble, and a pick-six. Quarterback Luke Altmyer has shown significant improvement in his second season, completing 69.2% of his passes for 647 yards, six touchdowns, and no turnovers, with senior wide receiver Pat Bryant as his main target.
Kaylor has thoroughly examined the matchup and is leaning towards taking the over on the point total while identifying a key X-factor influencing his bet on one side of the spread. For comprehensive insights and predictions, visit SportsLine to discover which side to support in this intriguing matchup.