2008 Illinois Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, jwinslow, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
Last week, the Buckeyes scored over 40 points in regulation for the second straight road game. That gave them a team-record 14 straight Big Ten road wins (TSUN's 17 from '88-'92 is the all-time mark). The last time the team had scored 40 points in consecutive games outside Columbus was in 2005, at Indiana and Minnesota, in the first 2 games of the current 14-game streak. Before that, the most recent time that had occurred was way back in 1989. That's right - it didn't occur in 1998 or 2002, or in the record setting offensive explosions of 1995 and 1996.
How many times has that happened in tOSU's illustrious history? Surprisingly, this is only the 6th time for a consecutive pair of 40-point efforts on the road. Woody's boys did it in 1974, Earle's in 1980 and 1982 (which had 3 straight counting the Holiday Bowl), and oddly enough Coop's only time was that 1989 squad.
The next game after those 2 road wins in 2005 was also against Illinois. In that game, the Buckeyes won 40-2, with the only points for the Ililni coming on a defensive conversion after a tOSU touchdown. The Buckeyes followed that game with another 40-point effort against Northwestern; that 4-game streak of 40+ points scored was the first time that had happened since the 1995 offensive machine.
There have been some memorable battles with the Fighting Illini. One of them occurred in 1980, when Dave Wilson was unstoppable in the second half, and threw for a record 621 yards in a 49-42 Buckeye victory. That is still the most yards ever thrown by a Big Ten QB. Illinois got 659 yards of total offense that day, which is the most ever by a Buckeye opponent.
Another classic was the 1984 comeback, when a 24-0 deficit was wiped out when Keith Byars ran out of his shoe in the 'Shoe, with that TD making it 24-14, and another TD after Earle's successful decision to go with an onside kick got the Buckeyes within 24-21 at the half. The eventual 45-38 victory was pretty much a foregone conclusion at that point.
Other great memories against the Illini have to include the tOSU record 314 rushing yards that Eddie George racked up in his 1995 Heisman campaign; and the 2002 overtime nail-biter, with incompletions in both sides of the end zone, was just another close call for our most recent National Champions.
The Illini have won 3 of the last 4 contests in Columbus, including last year's shocker; but tOSU has won six consecutive games in Champaign. That dates back to the stretch when Illinois had five straight wins from '88 to '92. Another of the recent Illlinois wins was in 2001, which was the Big-10 championship year for Illinois, when they lost to LSU in the Sugar Bowl in the first year that the Rose Bowl had the BCS NC game.
A tradition of 89 straight years with a tOSU-Illinois game was broken after the 2002 season. That started in 1914, which was the year that World War I began. To put 89 years into sports terms, that's longer than the Red Sox and the White Sox waited to win the World Series, but not as long as the Cubs.
1914 was also the first of 4 recognized NC's for Illinois. They won four of those between that year and 1927, all under Coach Robert Zuppke, who was there for 29 years, retiring just before Pearl Harbor.
A win for the Buckeyes would give them the opportunity to play TSUN next week knowing that a win in The Game will give tOSU at least a share of a fourth straight Big Ten Championship.
Date and TimeThe next game after those 2 road wins in 2005 was also against Illinois. In that game, the Buckeyes won 40-2, with the only points for the Ililni coming on a defensive conversion after a tOSU touchdown. The Buckeyes followed that game with another 40-point effort against Northwestern; that 4-game streak of 40+ points scored was the first time that had happened since the 1995 offensive machine.
There have been some memorable battles with the Fighting Illini. One of them occurred in 1980, when Dave Wilson was unstoppable in the second half, and threw for a record 621 yards in a 49-42 Buckeye victory. That is still the most yards ever thrown by a Big Ten QB. Illinois got 659 yards of total offense that day, which is the most ever by a Buckeye opponent.
Another classic was the 1984 comeback, when a 24-0 deficit was wiped out when Keith Byars ran out of his shoe in the 'Shoe, with that TD making it 24-14, and another TD after Earle's successful decision to go with an onside kick got the Buckeyes within 24-21 at the half. The eventual 45-38 victory was pretty much a foregone conclusion at that point.
Other great memories against the Illini have to include the tOSU record 314 rushing yards that Eddie George racked up in his 1995 Heisman campaign; and the 2002 overtime nail-biter, with incompletions in both sides of the end zone, was just another close call for our most recent National Champions.
The Illini have won 3 of the last 4 contests in Columbus, including last year's shocker; but tOSU has won six consecutive games in Champaign. That dates back to the stretch when Illinois had five straight wins from '88 to '92. Another of the recent Illlinois wins was in 2001, which was the Big-10 championship year for Illinois, when they lost to LSU in the Sugar Bowl in the first year that the Rose Bowl had the BCS NC game.
A tradition of 89 straight years with a tOSU-Illinois game was broken after the 2002 season. That started in 1914, which was the year that World War I began. To put 89 years into sports terms, that's longer than the Red Sox and the White Sox waited to win the World Series, but not as long as the Cubs.
1914 was also the first of 4 recognized NC's for Illinois. They won four of those between that year and 1927, all under Coach Robert Zuppke, who was there for 29 years, retiring just before Pearl Harbor.
A win for the Buckeyes would give them the opportunity to play TSUN next week knowing that a win in The Game will give tOSU at least a share of a fourth straight Big Ten Championship.
Date: Saturday, November 15th, 2008
Time: Noon ET Kick-off
Location: Memorial Stadium - Champaign. Illinois
Constructed: 1923 (Renovated in 2008)
Seating Capacity: 62,872
Playing Surface: FieldTurf (new in 2008, formerly AstroPlay)
Location: Memorial Stadium - Champaign. Illinois
Constructed: 1923 (Renovated in 2008)
Seating Capacity: 62,872
Playing Surface: FieldTurf (new in 2008, formerly AstroPlay)
Events:
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ESPN: Dave Pasch (Play-by-play), Andre Ware (Analysis, and Commentary about running up the score)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2008 Illinois Offensive PreviewBroadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ESPN: Dave Pasch (Play-by-play), Andre Ware (Analysis, and Commentary about running up the score)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Coming off of a convincing win over the previously ranked Wildcats of Northwestern, the Buckeyes finish their Illinois double-header by facing the Illini in Champaign-Urbana. The Illini are a team at a major crossroads after losing last week to Western Michigan. The Broncos have a good football team, but there is no perceived excuse for losing a game to a MAC school if you reside in the Big Ten and consider yourself a contender. After going to the Rose Bowl last season, the Illini find themselves on the brink of missing a bowl game, needing a win in one of their final two games just to attain the requisite 6 wins. It is fair to say that despite flashes of good play, this team has underachieved this season, but it is also fair to say that the Illini handed the Buckeyes their only regular season loss last season, and anther solid effort will be forthcoming from an angry and desperate team this weekend as they try to salvage their season. One thing is certain, and that is there is no lack of talent on the offensive side of the football.
Despite their pedestrian record, the Illini have had a lot of success moving the football this season. Their total yards per game average (459.9) is 15th nationally. They have been able to run the ball with some success (169.7 YPG, 41st), and also have been very effective passing the ball (277.9 YPG, 16th). The team has also scored its share of points (31.4 PPG, 33rd). Illinois has also moved the chains effectively (21.1 1st downs per game, 32nd) and converted a reasonable percentage of their 3rd downs (42.6%, 36th). So, overall, Illinois has had a pretty effective 2008 on the offensive side of the ball. However, they have struggled at times, have a penchant for turning the ball over at critical times, and have not been able to finish off games well, and thus find themselves on the brink of bowl elimination.
Despite their pedestrian record, the Illini have had a lot of success moving the football this season. Their total yards per game average (459.9) is 15th nationally. They have been able to run the ball with some success (169.7 YPG, 41st), and also have been very effective passing the ball (277.9 YPG, 16th). The team has also scored its share of points (31.4 PPG, 33rd). Illinois has also moved the chains effectively (21.1 1st downs per game, 32nd) and converted a reasonable percentage of their 3rd downs (42.6%, 36th). So, overall, Illinois has had a pretty effective 2008 on the offensive side of the ball. However, they have struggled at times, have a penchant for turning the ball over at critical times, and have not been able to finish off games well, and thus find themselves on the brink of bowl elimination.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Juice Williams (6-2, 233, JR, Vocational HS, Chicago, IL)
There is little doubt that Williams is one of the most dynamic players in the Big Ten. Last season he threw for 1743 yards and 13 TDs, and ran for 755 yards and scored 7 more times on the ground. He also had Rashard Mendenhall to be a feature player in the offense with him. This season, Williams has been more of a focus, and his play has been decent but sometimes erratic. He is clearly better in the passing game, which has become more of a focal point since the departure of Mendenhall. He has already thrown for over 1000 more yards than last season, and has racked up 20 TD passes. On the down side, he has also thrown 14 INTs and been sacked 18 times. He has still been a big threat on the ground, gaining 577 yards and scoring 5 TDs thus far, and he is on pace to match his rushing totals from last season. He is still a very, very streaky player however, as he has played unbelievably well is some games, and very poorly in others. His highlights include passing for 451 yards and 5 TDs against Missouri, the following game against Eastern Illinois where he threw for 124 yards and a score and rushed for 174 yards and 2 more, 462 yards passing against Minnesota, 271 yards passing and 3 scores against Indiana, and 272 passing yards and a score against Iowa. His best game thus far, and perhaps the best Big Ten game by a quarterback this season, was against Michigan, where he went on the road and threw for 310 yards and 2 TDs, and ran for 121 yards and scored 2 more. On the flip side, his performance against Louisiana-Lafayette was average at best, he completed less than 50% of his passes, threw 2 picks, and was unable to lead a final drive against Western Michigan (despite playing reasonably well most of the game), and he threw 3 INTs and gained only 4 yards on the ground in a loss to Wisconsin. There is no doubt that at his best, he is an extremely versatile and dangerous player, and one of the more dynamic forces in the Big Ten. In the game against the Buckeyes last season, he threw for 4 TDs and gained 70 yards on the ground, repeatedly frustrating the Buckeyes on 3rd down all 2nd half en route to the big upset win in Columbus. He will have to bounce back from the disappointment of last week to play one of his best games this weekend if the Illini want a repeat.
Backing up Williams is sophomore Eddie McGee (#10). There was some thought that he would push Williams for playing time after some of his performances last season, but he has been restricted to mop-up duty this season. He is starting to line up some as a wide receiver to take advantage of his athletic ability while Williams is at the helm. He has plenty of game experience, though, so his entering the game at this position would not be a detriment to the Illini.
QB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State QBs
Williams (P/R): 182/319 (57.1%), 2769 yards, 20 TDs, 14 INTs, 141.9 rating; 141/577, 5 TDs
Pryor (P/R): 84/129 (65.1%), 1076 yards, 9 TDs, 3 INTs, 153.6 rating; 103/450, 5 TDs
Pryor continues to develop, and he played one of his best games last weekend in the demolition of Northwestern. The production of Williams, both on the ground and through the air, speaks for itself. Pryor appears to be destined to be the most dangerous player in the Big Ten, a title that Williams might hold right now, particularly when he is on. If he plays like he did against Michigan, it will be difficult for any defense to stop him. If he plays like he did against Western Michigan, the Buckeyes will have more success. Both teams have backups that can play, and so are not terrified of the prospect of putting either player in. Edge to Williams for his experience, though it appears Pryor may turn out to be the better player in the long run if he continues to develop as he is.
Edge: Illinois
Running Backs
TB #22 Daniel Dufrene (5-11, 201, SR, College of the Sequoias, Fort Lauderdale, FL)
TB #21 Jason Ford (6-0, 220, FR, Althoff HS, Belleville, IL)
After gaining 294 yards as a backup in 2007, Dufrene took the helm in 2008. Though he has not broken 20 carries in a game, he got a lot of work early. He gained 75 yards against Missouri, 99 against Eastern Illinois, 126 against Louisiana-Lafayette, and 96 to open conference play at Penn State. Surprisingly, he has failed to find the end zone on the ground in 2008, despite being the 2nd leading rusher on the team to Williams, and after a couple of pedestrian games against Michigan (46 yards, 3.1 YPR) and Minnesota (36 yards, 3.6 YPR) he has seen his workload get reduced in recent weeks, totaling only 19 carries in the past 4 games. He is a consistent threat out of the backfield, hauling in 19 catches and 2 TD passes.
Upstart freshman Ford has seen his playing time rise, and he has started 3 of the previous 5 games for the Illini. He's a bruising back who can be especially effective in the red zone. Those who saw the results of the Indiana-Wisconsin game this weekend should find it as no surprise that he had his best game by far against the Hoosiers, gaining 172 yards and scoring 3 TDs on only 19 carries. His productivity has been limited since then, however, gaining just 47 yards the following week and culminating with just 5 yards on 8 carries against Iowa and 9 carries for 0 yards in the loss to the Broncos last week. He did score a TD in both games, however. Ford is not the receiving threat that Dufrene is, though he has caught a total of 5 passes the previous 3 games.
Also getting an occasional look is freshman Mike LeShoure (#5). He's another bruiser (6-0, 240) and a good prospect, but he has totaled only 18 carries since Big Ten play began.
RB Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State RBs
Dufrene: 103/575 yards, 0 TDs, 5.6 YPC; 19 rec/178 yards, 2 TDs, 9.4 YPR
Ford: 67/239 yards, 7 TDs, 3.6 YPC; 6 rec/51 yards, 0 TDs, 8.5 YPR
C Wells: 152/814 yards, 6 TDs, 5.4 YPC; 7 rec/26 yards, 0 TDs, 3.7 YPR
Herron: 64/300 yards, 2 TDs, 4.7 YPC; 5 rec/27 yards, 0 TDs, 5.4 YPR
M Wells: 32/123 yards, 0 TDs, 3.8 YPC; 5 rec/42 yards, 0 TDs, 8.4 YPR
The Illini have a couple of young Wisconsin-esque punishers who will no doubt be part of the picture for years to come, and Dufrene can do some nice things to the outside and out of the backfield catching the ball. None of these backs is anywhere near the caliber of Wells, however, and now that Herron is back, the Buckeyes have a very potent 1-2 punch.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2, 214, SO, Dunbar HS, Washington, DC)
WR #13 Will Judson (5-8, 163, SR, Florida A&M, Riverdale, GA)
WR #82 Fred Sykes (6-0, 184, FR, Chamberlain HS, Tampa, FL)
After a stellar freshman campaign where he caught 54 passes for 676 yards, big things were predicted in 2008 for Benn, and he has not disappointed. He is on pace to go above the 1000 yard plateau and catch around 70 passes. He is tall, has good size, very good speed, and can get open downfield very effectively. He has caught at least 6 passes in 7 different games, including 7 for 92 yards against Missouri, 4 for 100 yards and 2 TDs against Penn State, 6 for 122 yards against Michigan, 12 for 181 yards against Minnesota, 7 for 130 yards and a TD against Indiana, 7 for 96 yards against Iowa, and 7 for 11 yards last week against the Broncos. Benn will also carry the ball some, with 21 carries for 93 yards and 2 TDs on the ground to add to his credentials. Clearly, it is very difficult for teams to slow him down, and a majority of opponents have not been able to stop him at all. Last year against Ohio State, however, he had just 1 catch for 7 yards. It will be imperative for the Buckeyes to bracket Benn all day Saturday, because if he gets it going, the Illini are very tough to stop.
Also manning a starting role is the veteran Judson. He is 2nd on the team in catches and yards, and he has had some big games and some games where he was not a factor at all. His highlights include a 5 catch, 177 yard, 2 TD performance against Missouri, 73 yards against Minnesota, and a 60 yarder against Indiana. He has also had 5 games where he has caught just one pass, so it will be important for the Illini to try and get him involved to try and take some of the pressure off of Benn.
The third spot has been a bit of a revolving door. Chris Duvalt (#15) started the season with the job, catching 3 TDs in the first 2 games. However, recently junior Jeff Cumberland (#17) has significantly contributed (12 catches, 270 yards, 3 TDs in the past 6 games) and started a game, and rising freshman Sykes has started 5 games himself, chipping in 12 catches for 156 yards and a TD. Fellow freshman A.J. Jenkins (#8) is a potential big-play goldmine for Illinois, having 238 yards on just 8 catches for a ridiculous 29.8 YPC average. He caught 3 passes for 117 yards and 2 TDs against Minnesota, burned Wisconsin for 61 yards and a score on 3 catches, and nabbed a 54-yarder last weekend. No one else has more than 3 catches this season.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State WRs
Benn: 60 catches, 947 yards, 3 TDs, 15.8 YPR
Judson: 21 catches, 401 yards, 2 TDs, 19.1 YPR
Cumberland: 12 catches, 270 yards, 3 TDs, 22.5 YPR
Robiskie: 30 catches, 298 yards, 5 TDs, 9.9 YPR
Hartline: 16 catches, 302 yards, 2 TDs, 18.9 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 16 catches, 187 yards, 0 TDs, 11.7 YPR
Benn has had a great season, and may be the best player of this group. Robiskie and Hartline have suffered some from the slower development of the passing game this season, but are probably next in line. The Illini have several options, with a nice mixture of size, speed, veteran presence, youthful enthusiasm, and large yard-per-catch averages. The Illini passing game has been more explosive, and this unit is deeper, so the Illini get the nod.
Edge: Illinois
Tight Ends
TE #16 Michael Hoomanawanui (6-5, 274, JR, Central Catholic HS, Bloomington, IL)
Hoomanawanui is a monster, standing about the size of a small lineman, yet possessing good hands and the ability to find a seam downfield. After catching just 5 passes total last season, he has been a much more consistent component of the passing game, catching at least 2 passes in 7 games. Of his 21 catches, 19 have been for either 1st downs or touchdowns. He is also a mauler of a blocker who can give any linebacker or safety significant difficulty tackling Williams or one of the backs.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State TEs
Hoomanawanui: 21 catches, 278 yards, 2 TDs, 13.2 YPR
Nicol: 6 catches, 60 yards, 2 TDs, 10.0 YPR
Ballard: 3 catches, 42 yards, 0 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Hoomanawanui has really stepped up his game this season, and has provided a spark to the passing game as well as good blocking skills. Nicol and Ballard make a nice tandem, but give the Illini the edge here.
Edge: Illinois
Offensive Line
LT #68 Xavier Fulton (6-5, 300, SR, Homewood-Flossmoor HS, Flossmoor, IL)
LG #62 Eric Block (6-3, 292, SR, Jesuit HS, New Orleans, LA)
C #60 Ryan McDonald (6-5, 296, SR, West Ottawa HS, Holland, MI)
RG #52 John Asamoah (6-5, 309, JR, Rich East HS, Park Forest, IL)
RT #71 Jeff Allen (6-4, 317, FR, King HS, Chicago, IL)
This is a stout line with plenty of veteran leadership. On the left side, Fulton moved from DT, and was named 2nd team All-Big Ten last season. He continues his high level of play this season, and is an anchor at left tackle, with 23 consecutive starts. Block is a versatile interior lineman who has taken over the starting guard position this season. McDonald is a stalwart in the middle, having started 46 games, garnered 2nd team All-Big Ten honors last season, and being on the Rimington Award list this season. He is a solid candidate for 1st team all-conference this season. On the right side, Asamoah started all 13 games in 2007, and continues to man the RG position in 2008. Allen is a rising star at RT, taking over the starting duties in just his first season in week 4.
Most of the backups are younger players, with 3 freshman and a sophomore. Only senior Mike Nabolotny (#65) provides veteran presence off the bench.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State OL
The Buckeyes played a good game last weekend, but the production from the Illini has been better and more consistent, and they have 2 players who are possible first team All-Big Ten performers.
Edge: Illinois
Overall Offensive Analysis
Overall Analysis: Illinois has piled up yardage this season on the ground and through the air, but it has not translated to the success they had as a team in 2007. Williams has been at time brilliant, at times erratic, and the running game has been inconsistent from the tailback position. The Illini will need to establish a ground game that takes some pressure of Williams, because if the Buckeyes can focus on teeing off on the passing game, even big-time players like Williams and Benn will not be effective enough to garner a win. Not surprisingly, the offense rests on the shoulders of Williams. Whether he will be as effective against the Buckeyes this go-around remains to be seen.
Overall Offensive Rating: B+
2008 Illinois Defensive PreviewQB #7 Juice Williams (6-2, 233, JR, Vocational HS, Chicago, IL)
There is little doubt that Williams is one of the most dynamic players in the Big Ten. Last season he threw for 1743 yards and 13 TDs, and ran for 755 yards and scored 7 more times on the ground. He also had Rashard Mendenhall to be a feature player in the offense with him. This season, Williams has been more of a focus, and his play has been decent but sometimes erratic. He is clearly better in the passing game, which has become more of a focal point since the departure of Mendenhall. He has already thrown for over 1000 more yards than last season, and has racked up 20 TD passes. On the down side, he has also thrown 14 INTs and been sacked 18 times. He has still been a big threat on the ground, gaining 577 yards and scoring 5 TDs thus far, and he is on pace to match his rushing totals from last season. He is still a very, very streaky player however, as he has played unbelievably well is some games, and very poorly in others. His highlights include passing for 451 yards and 5 TDs against Missouri, the following game against Eastern Illinois where he threw for 124 yards and a score and rushed for 174 yards and 2 more, 462 yards passing against Minnesota, 271 yards passing and 3 scores against Indiana, and 272 passing yards and a score against Iowa. His best game thus far, and perhaps the best Big Ten game by a quarterback this season, was against Michigan, where he went on the road and threw for 310 yards and 2 TDs, and ran for 121 yards and scored 2 more. On the flip side, his performance against Louisiana-Lafayette was average at best, he completed less than 50% of his passes, threw 2 picks, and was unable to lead a final drive against Western Michigan (despite playing reasonably well most of the game), and he threw 3 INTs and gained only 4 yards on the ground in a loss to Wisconsin. There is no doubt that at his best, he is an extremely versatile and dangerous player, and one of the more dynamic forces in the Big Ten. In the game against the Buckeyes last season, he threw for 4 TDs and gained 70 yards on the ground, repeatedly frustrating the Buckeyes on 3rd down all 2nd half en route to the big upset win in Columbus. He will have to bounce back from the disappointment of last week to play one of his best games this weekend if the Illini want a repeat.
Backing up Williams is sophomore Eddie McGee (#10). There was some thought that he would push Williams for playing time after some of his performances last season, but he has been restricted to mop-up duty this season. He is starting to line up some as a wide receiver to take advantage of his athletic ability while Williams is at the helm. He has plenty of game experience, though, so his entering the game at this position would not be a detriment to the Illini.
QB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State QBs
Williams (P/R): 182/319 (57.1%), 2769 yards, 20 TDs, 14 INTs, 141.9 rating; 141/577, 5 TDs
Pryor (P/R): 84/129 (65.1%), 1076 yards, 9 TDs, 3 INTs, 153.6 rating; 103/450, 5 TDs
Pryor continues to develop, and he played one of his best games last weekend in the demolition of Northwestern. The production of Williams, both on the ground and through the air, speaks for itself. Pryor appears to be destined to be the most dangerous player in the Big Ten, a title that Williams might hold right now, particularly when he is on. If he plays like he did against Michigan, it will be difficult for any defense to stop him. If he plays like he did against Western Michigan, the Buckeyes will have more success. Both teams have backups that can play, and so are not terrified of the prospect of putting either player in. Edge to Williams for his experience, though it appears Pryor may turn out to be the better player in the long run if he continues to develop as he is.
Edge: Illinois
Running Backs
TB #22 Daniel Dufrene (5-11, 201, SR, College of the Sequoias, Fort Lauderdale, FL)
TB #21 Jason Ford (6-0, 220, FR, Althoff HS, Belleville, IL)
After gaining 294 yards as a backup in 2007, Dufrene took the helm in 2008. Though he has not broken 20 carries in a game, he got a lot of work early. He gained 75 yards against Missouri, 99 against Eastern Illinois, 126 against Louisiana-Lafayette, and 96 to open conference play at Penn State. Surprisingly, he has failed to find the end zone on the ground in 2008, despite being the 2nd leading rusher on the team to Williams, and after a couple of pedestrian games against Michigan (46 yards, 3.1 YPR) and Minnesota (36 yards, 3.6 YPR) he has seen his workload get reduced in recent weeks, totaling only 19 carries in the past 4 games. He is a consistent threat out of the backfield, hauling in 19 catches and 2 TD passes.
Upstart freshman Ford has seen his playing time rise, and he has started 3 of the previous 5 games for the Illini. He's a bruising back who can be especially effective in the red zone. Those who saw the results of the Indiana-Wisconsin game this weekend should find it as no surprise that he had his best game by far against the Hoosiers, gaining 172 yards and scoring 3 TDs on only 19 carries. His productivity has been limited since then, however, gaining just 47 yards the following week and culminating with just 5 yards on 8 carries against Iowa and 9 carries for 0 yards in the loss to the Broncos last week. He did score a TD in both games, however. Ford is not the receiving threat that Dufrene is, though he has caught a total of 5 passes the previous 3 games.
Also getting an occasional look is freshman Mike LeShoure (#5). He's another bruiser (6-0, 240) and a good prospect, but he has totaled only 18 carries since Big Ten play began.
RB Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State RBs
Dufrene: 103/575 yards, 0 TDs, 5.6 YPC; 19 rec/178 yards, 2 TDs, 9.4 YPR
Ford: 67/239 yards, 7 TDs, 3.6 YPC; 6 rec/51 yards, 0 TDs, 8.5 YPR
C Wells: 152/814 yards, 6 TDs, 5.4 YPC; 7 rec/26 yards, 0 TDs, 3.7 YPR
Herron: 64/300 yards, 2 TDs, 4.7 YPC; 5 rec/27 yards, 0 TDs, 5.4 YPR
M Wells: 32/123 yards, 0 TDs, 3.8 YPC; 5 rec/42 yards, 0 TDs, 8.4 YPR
The Illini have a couple of young Wisconsin-esque punishers who will no doubt be part of the picture for years to come, and Dufrene can do some nice things to the outside and out of the backfield catching the ball. None of these backs is anywhere near the caliber of Wells, however, and now that Herron is back, the Buckeyes have a very potent 1-2 punch.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2, 214, SO, Dunbar HS, Washington, DC)
WR #13 Will Judson (5-8, 163, SR, Florida A&M, Riverdale, GA)
WR #82 Fred Sykes (6-0, 184, FR, Chamberlain HS, Tampa, FL)
After a stellar freshman campaign where he caught 54 passes for 676 yards, big things were predicted in 2008 for Benn, and he has not disappointed. He is on pace to go above the 1000 yard plateau and catch around 70 passes. He is tall, has good size, very good speed, and can get open downfield very effectively. He has caught at least 6 passes in 7 different games, including 7 for 92 yards against Missouri, 4 for 100 yards and 2 TDs against Penn State, 6 for 122 yards against Michigan, 12 for 181 yards against Minnesota, 7 for 130 yards and a TD against Indiana, 7 for 96 yards against Iowa, and 7 for 11 yards last week against the Broncos. Benn will also carry the ball some, with 21 carries for 93 yards and 2 TDs on the ground to add to his credentials. Clearly, it is very difficult for teams to slow him down, and a majority of opponents have not been able to stop him at all. Last year against Ohio State, however, he had just 1 catch for 7 yards. It will be imperative for the Buckeyes to bracket Benn all day Saturday, because if he gets it going, the Illini are very tough to stop.
Also manning a starting role is the veteran Judson. He is 2nd on the team in catches and yards, and he has had some big games and some games where he was not a factor at all. His highlights include a 5 catch, 177 yard, 2 TD performance against Missouri, 73 yards against Minnesota, and a 60 yarder against Indiana. He has also had 5 games where he has caught just one pass, so it will be important for the Illini to try and get him involved to try and take some of the pressure off of Benn.
The third spot has been a bit of a revolving door. Chris Duvalt (#15) started the season with the job, catching 3 TDs in the first 2 games. However, recently junior Jeff Cumberland (#17) has significantly contributed (12 catches, 270 yards, 3 TDs in the past 6 games) and started a game, and rising freshman Sykes has started 5 games himself, chipping in 12 catches for 156 yards and a TD. Fellow freshman A.J. Jenkins (#8) is a potential big-play goldmine for Illinois, having 238 yards on just 8 catches for a ridiculous 29.8 YPC average. He caught 3 passes for 117 yards and 2 TDs against Minnesota, burned Wisconsin for 61 yards and a score on 3 catches, and nabbed a 54-yarder last weekend. No one else has more than 3 catches this season.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State WRs
Benn: 60 catches, 947 yards, 3 TDs, 15.8 YPR
Judson: 21 catches, 401 yards, 2 TDs, 19.1 YPR
Cumberland: 12 catches, 270 yards, 3 TDs, 22.5 YPR
Robiskie: 30 catches, 298 yards, 5 TDs, 9.9 YPR
Hartline: 16 catches, 302 yards, 2 TDs, 18.9 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 16 catches, 187 yards, 0 TDs, 11.7 YPR
Benn has had a great season, and may be the best player of this group. Robiskie and Hartline have suffered some from the slower development of the passing game this season, but are probably next in line. The Illini have several options, with a nice mixture of size, speed, veteran presence, youthful enthusiasm, and large yard-per-catch averages. The Illini passing game has been more explosive, and this unit is deeper, so the Illini get the nod.
Edge: Illinois
Tight Ends
TE #16 Michael Hoomanawanui (6-5, 274, JR, Central Catholic HS, Bloomington, IL)
Hoomanawanui is a monster, standing about the size of a small lineman, yet possessing good hands and the ability to find a seam downfield. After catching just 5 passes total last season, he has been a much more consistent component of the passing game, catching at least 2 passes in 7 games. Of his 21 catches, 19 have been for either 1st downs or touchdowns. He is also a mauler of a blocker who can give any linebacker or safety significant difficulty tackling Williams or one of the backs.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State TEs
Hoomanawanui: 21 catches, 278 yards, 2 TDs, 13.2 YPR
Nicol: 6 catches, 60 yards, 2 TDs, 10.0 YPR
Ballard: 3 catches, 42 yards, 0 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Hoomanawanui has really stepped up his game this season, and has provided a spark to the passing game as well as good blocking skills. Nicol and Ballard make a nice tandem, but give the Illini the edge here.
Edge: Illinois
Offensive Line
LT #68 Xavier Fulton (6-5, 300, SR, Homewood-Flossmoor HS, Flossmoor, IL)
LG #62 Eric Block (6-3, 292, SR, Jesuit HS, New Orleans, LA)
C #60 Ryan McDonald (6-5, 296, SR, West Ottawa HS, Holland, MI)
RG #52 John Asamoah (6-5, 309, JR, Rich East HS, Park Forest, IL)
RT #71 Jeff Allen (6-4, 317, FR, King HS, Chicago, IL)
This is a stout line with plenty of veteran leadership. On the left side, Fulton moved from DT, and was named 2nd team All-Big Ten last season. He continues his high level of play this season, and is an anchor at left tackle, with 23 consecutive starts. Block is a versatile interior lineman who has taken over the starting guard position this season. McDonald is a stalwart in the middle, having started 46 games, garnered 2nd team All-Big Ten honors last season, and being on the Rimington Award list this season. He is a solid candidate for 1st team all-conference this season. On the right side, Asamoah started all 13 games in 2007, and continues to man the RG position in 2008. Allen is a rising star at RT, taking over the starting duties in just his first season in week 4.
Most of the backups are younger players, with 3 freshman and a sophomore. Only senior Mike Nabolotny (#65) provides veteran presence off the bench.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State OL
The Buckeyes played a good game last weekend, but the production from the Illini has been better and more consistent, and they have 2 players who are possible first team All-Big Ten performers.
Edge: Illinois
Overall Offensive Analysis
Overall Analysis: Illinois has piled up yardage this season on the ground and through the air, but it has not translated to the success they had as a team in 2007. Williams has been at time brilliant, at times erratic, and the running game has been inconsistent from the tailback position. The Illini will need to establish a ground game that takes some pressure of Williams, because if the Buckeyes can focus on teeing off on the passing game, even big-time players like Williams and Benn will not be effective enough to garner a win. Not surprisingly, the offense rests on the shoulders of Williams. Whether he will be as effective against the Buckeyes this go-around remains to be seen.
Overall Offensive Rating: B+
Returning Starters: 6
Co-Defensive Coordinators Dan Disch and Curt Mallory are together again coordinating Illinois 4-3 base. Disch graduated from Florida State in 1981and is now in his 4th season with Illinois after following Zook from Florida where he is credited with rebuilding the 2004 Gator's secondary. At Illinois he earned high grades in developingt he Special Teams and now also coaches the LBs. Thus, he can take some responsibility for the development and success of outgoing senior LB J. Leman. Mallory, also in his 4th season with the Illini and 2nd as Co-Defensive Coordinator, is also responsible for the Defenisve backs. A Two-Time letter man at Michigan, Mallory graduated in 1990 after being on 4 Big Ten Championship teams. Mallory would win a 5th Big Ten Crown as a Graduate Assistant(1992). Mallory has been instrumental in the rise of the likes of former Free Safety Kevin Mitchell and current Corner Back Vontae Davis, the latter of whom is a Thorpe Award Semi-finalist and 1st team All Big Ten selection. Looking to field an aggressive, play-making group, statistically the Illini have had some growing pains in 2008 as they struggle some in trying to replace several outgoing Seniors, including the aforementioned Leman and Mitchell.
Stats.......|Score..|Tot.Yds..|Rush..|Pass..|INT.|Fum.|Sack..|1stD..|3rd D..|PCT...|Red Zone.|PCT.|RZ TDs.|PCT.|TOF..|
Illinois....|.26.2..|..351.1..|142.1.|209.0.|.5..|.13.|.32...|188...|53-145.|37%...|28-35....|80%.|18-35..|51%.|30:24|
Ohio State..|.13.0..|..269.8..|105.4.|164.4.|13..|.11..|.19...|163...|55-142.|39%...|17-20....|85%.|10-20..|50%.|28:16|
* TOF = Time on Field (Opponent's T.O.P)
Illinois ranks 8th in the Big Ten in points allowed, giving up nearly a TD more per contest than the 2007 unit. In terms of Total Yards, the Illini are 6th in the Big Ten, and have improved slightly over last year's group which gave up 355.4 yards per game. Perhaps a testament to the loss of J. Leman, of those yards, 142.1 come on the ground, placing Illinois' rush D 7th in the conference, and some 30 yards a game worse than '07's group. The secondary, however, has been 30 some yards better per game than in 07 but still ranks only 7th in the conference. Ohio State, meanwhile, is 2nd in; Scoring D (Penn State 12.4), Total Yards (Penn State 266.5), and Rush Yards (Penn State 99.3), and is first in the league in Pass Defense at 164.4. While the two units are about the same on 3rd down, the Buckeyes have been better getting off the field before opponents reacht the Red Zone. As indicated above, not only do the Illini opponents have 15 more Red Zone opportuntities than do Ohio State opponents, Illini opponents have been able to control the clock better than have Ohio State opponents. Perhaps this time on the field is responsible for the fact that the Illini have given up 99 4th quarter points this season, while the Buckeyes have yielded on 32.
Defensive Line
LE #91 Derek Walker (6-4, 270, SR)
LT #92 Josh Brent (6-2, 315, SO)
RT #94 David Lindquist (6-3, 293, SR)
RE #95 Doug Pilcher (6-5, 266, JR)
Defensive End Derek Walker is one of two returning starters to the Illinios line. He has a nice combonation of size and speed, but has displayed inconsistency during his career recording just 22 tackles and 2.5 sacks last season. This year he has improved on those numbers with 25 Tackles, 7 for loss with 6 sacks and a 34 yard INT to go along with 2 fumble recoveries. The other returning starter is Lindquist who is very athletic for a man his size (he played both Hockey and Lacrosse in High School). While perhaps not the stereotypical anchor of an interior line, he can get upfield in a hurry. He has 37 Tackles, 7.5 for loss with 4 sacks in 2008. The youngest of the linemen, Brent has had a very year thus far. A highly touted recruit, Brent has the bulk to be the anchor missing in Lindquist, and the speed to make opposing linemen work hard for their blocks. He has 29 Tackles, 6.5 for loss with 1.5 sacks. Rounding out the starting four is Pilcher who has had moment where he looks unstoppable. He has 19 Tackles, 6 for loss and 2.5 sacks.
Depth comes from Ends; #97 Clay Nurse (6-3, 258, SO), #81 Will Davis (6-3, 268, SR), #99 Jerry Brown (6-4, 251, SO) and Tackles; #93 Corey Liuget (6-3, 283, FR), #98 Daryle Ballew (6-1, 313, rFR). The reserves are led by Will Davis' 32 Tackles, 7 of which have come behind the line and 4 of which have been sacks. A former Wide Reciever, then Tight End, Davis brings speed to the defensive front where he started 4 games in 2007. He has All Big Ten potential for sure. Liuget was a highly sought after recruit who has seen action in 9 games this season recording 20 tackles, 3 for loss with 1.5 sacks, while Nurse has 8 tackles with a sack in 10 games. While Ballew has not yet recorded a Tackle, Brown has 4 with half for loss.
DL Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DL
Rob Rose - 7 Tackles, 1 for loss
Cam Heyward - 22 Tackles, 3 TFL, 1 Sack
Doug Worthing - 23 Tackles, 3 TFL, 1 Fumble Rec.
Thad Gibson - 20 Tackles, 6 TFL, 4 Sack, 1 Fumble Rec. (TD)
There is little question that the Illini have been more successful getting to the QB and making the sack. Likewise, the starting 4 have more tackles than do their Buckeye counterparts, but some of that has to do with the season ending injury to Lawrence Wilson. None-the-less, the Illini front has a good combonation of size and speed to go along with a good mix of veterans and rookies. Despite the activity in the backfield, however, the Buckeyes give up far less yards on the ground than do the Illini and have proven adequate enough in the pass rush - at least as far as passing yards against are a testament to causing the QB to throw the ball before he's quite ready. While the two lines may be even, because Illinois is better at causing disruption at the point of attack, a slight edge goes to them here, though Ohio State's line would probably merit a B- rating as well.
Edge: Illinois
Linebackers
OLB #2 Martez Wilson (6-4, 246, SO)
MLB #44 Brit Miller (6-1, 250, SR)
WLB #45 Rodney Pittman (6-2, 242, SR)
The Illini have replaced J. Leman in the Middle with Brit Miller who has responded by filling the outgoing star's shoes quite well thus far. Miller has an NFL ready body and has very good speed which affords him even more range than had Leman. He is far and away the team leader in tackles with 110, 15.5 of which have come behind the LOS and 6 which have been sacks to go along with a 15 yard INT and a 27 yard Fumble Recovery. Wilson takes over Miller's vacated Strong Side position. The highly recruited Sophomore brings great size and quickness to the outside. If he bulks up much more he may end up as a rush end, but for the moment he is second on the team with 69 Tackles, 5.5 for loss with 3 sacks and a fumble recovery. Pittman, a Senior, also carries excellent size and speed replacing Antonio Steele from last year's corps. He has 38 Tackles, 2.5 for loss with a sack in 2008. While not a liability by any means, Pittman may be the best choice to attack.
Depth is provided by, #43 Sam Carson (6-1, 254, SR), #33 Russell Ellington (6-2, 217, FR), #38 Ian Thomas (6-0, 218, rFR), and #53 Dustin Jefferson (6-0, 230, SO). Carson leads the reserves with 26 Tackles, 2 for loss with a fumble recovery in 10 games. Ellington has 8 tackles in 10 games, while Jefferson has 4 in 9 games and Thomas 3 in 7.
LB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 101 Tackles, 3.0 TFL, 2.5 Sacks, 2 INT
Marcus Freeman - 61 Tackles, 6.5 TFL, 3.5 Sacks
Ross Homan - 60 Tackles, 5 TFL, 2 Fumble Rec.
In terms of tackles, both groups are similar with Miller having 9 more stops than Animal and Wilson having 8 more than Freeman. The difference is between Homan and his 38 tackles and Pittman's 38. The Illini LBs have more sacks and TFLs, while the Buckeyes have recorded one more take-away via pick or fumble recovery. Even if the statistics give a slight edge to the Illini, the Buckeyes have a little more depth. Still the Illinois Defense has given up more points and more yards which speaks to how the men in the middle of the field have been holding up when it counts. While not a striking difference, the edge goes to the Buckeyes at LB.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #1 Vontae Davis (6-0, 204, JR)
FS #4 Donsay Hardeman (6-2, 220, JR)
SS #31 Travon Bellamy (6-0, 207, SO)
LCB #28 Dere Hicks (5-10, 179, JR)
Coming in to the season there was only one corner in the Big Ten who could stake an honest claim on the title of Best Corner in the conference other than Malcolm Jenkins. Like Jenkins, Davis is excellent in coverage while also possessing the ability to deliver the big hit. The is little doubt the All Big Ten selection will be playing on Sundays. he has 64 Tackles, 6 TFLs, 1 INT and a Fumble Recovery thus far. On the othe side Hicks returns for his Junior season. A decent all-around defender, Hicks can struggle at times when going against the better wideouts. Some of that may be a function of teams shying away from Davis. In any case, Hicks is 5th on the team in tackles with 38, 4 for loss with a sack, an INT and 2 fumble recoveries. Replacing Justin Harrison at Strong Safety is Travon Bellamy. Built more like a Corner, Bellamy will be able to stay with about anyone he's matched up with in coverage. He missed all of 2007 with injury but has remained healthy this year. In 10 games he has 52 Tackles. Replacing Mitchell at Free Safety is JUCO transfer Donsay Hardeman. He brings both size and speed to the secondary, as well as some ball-hawking ability. He has 37 Tackles, .5 for loss with a pick and a fumble recovery.
Reserves include Corners; #3 Tavon Wilson (6-0, 191, FR), and #27 Antonio Gully (6-1, 183, SO), and Safeties; #24 Bo Flowers (6-2, 218, SO), and #20 Garrett Edwards (6-2, 214, SO). Flowers is a 24 year old Sophomore who played baseball in the Chicago Cubs and Detroit Tiger systems before returning to football. A former QB, he brings solid size and smarts. He has 16 Tackles, 1 for loss in 7 games this season. Wilson has 8 tackles and half a TFL in 9 games, while Edwards has 14 tackles in 9 games. Gully has just 3 stops in 4 games.
DB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DBs
Malcolm Jenkins - 47 Tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 Sack 3 INTs
Anderson Russell - 52 Tackles, 1 INT, 2 Fumble Rec.
Kurt Coleman - 46 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 sack, 3 INT
Chimdi Chekwa - 16 Tackles, 1 INT
As good as Davis is, at best he simply cancels out what Jenkins brings to the Buckeyes. The differences between the two units are seen clearly in both the amount of yards yielded per game as well as the number of INTs each has recorded. Still, the Illini stepped up huge against Ohio State in 2007 and will be looking to do so again this season against Terrelle Pryor. The Illini have struggled against the more efficient passers, and despite being a Freshman and having several true passes dropped, Pryor has been just that with his 153.6 QB rating. If the secondary is forced in to having to play run support, the yards could open up. It will also be interesting to see if Ohio State takes advantage of the short route, which Illinois seemed willing to yield in '07, but which Ohio State never really exploited.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Illini defense is getting closer and closer to some of the better units in their history. While not quite among the top corps just yet, there is talent and potential at every position. There has been some minimal gain over last year's stop forces in terms of yards yielded, but the unit is till only middle tier in the big Ten. This group gives up far too many points as well and seems to be struggling generally, despite statistically decent numbers out of the starting group. Look for Ohio State to pound Beanie early and often as the Illini have given up over 140 yards per game. As Beanie gains success the passing game can open up as well. Ohio State should think carefully about simply trying the deep ball and take advantage of the short routes, assuming Illinois plans on using a similar game plan to 2007. The short routes would help with Pryor's comfort level (as if that were even a problem) and get him in a solid groove as the game progresses. In any event, the Illini are an improved defense when looking at a span of several years, but there is still some way to go before it is among the league's elite.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
2008 Illinois Special Teams PreviewStats.......|Score..|Tot.Yds..|Rush..|Pass..|INT.|Fum.|Sack..|1stD..|3rd D..|PCT...|Red Zone.|PCT.|RZ TDs.|PCT.|TOF..|
Illinois....|.26.2..|..351.1..|142.1.|209.0.|.5..|.13.|.32...|188...|53-145.|37%...|28-35....|80%.|18-35..|51%.|30:24|
Ohio State..|.13.0..|..269.8..|105.4.|164.4.|13..|.11..|.19...|163...|55-142.|39%...|17-20....|85%.|10-20..|50%.|28:16|
* TOF = Time on Field (Opponent's T.O.P)
Illinois ranks 8th in the Big Ten in points allowed, giving up nearly a TD more per contest than the 2007 unit. In terms of Total Yards, the Illini are 6th in the Big Ten, and have improved slightly over last year's group which gave up 355.4 yards per game. Perhaps a testament to the loss of J. Leman, of those yards, 142.1 come on the ground, placing Illinois' rush D 7th in the conference, and some 30 yards a game worse than '07's group. The secondary, however, has been 30 some yards better per game than in 07 but still ranks only 7th in the conference. Ohio State, meanwhile, is 2nd in; Scoring D (Penn State 12.4), Total Yards (Penn State 266.5), and Rush Yards (Penn State 99.3), and is first in the league in Pass Defense at 164.4. While the two units are about the same on 3rd down, the Buckeyes have been better getting off the field before opponents reacht the Red Zone. As indicated above, not only do the Illini opponents have 15 more Red Zone opportuntities than do Ohio State opponents, Illini opponents have been able to control the clock better than have Ohio State opponents. Perhaps this time on the field is responsible for the fact that the Illini have given up 99 4th quarter points this season, while the Buckeyes have yielded on 32.
Defensive Line
LE #91 Derek Walker (6-4, 270, SR)
LT #92 Josh Brent (6-2, 315, SO)
RT #94 David Lindquist (6-3, 293, SR)
RE #95 Doug Pilcher (6-5, 266, JR)
Defensive End Derek Walker is one of two returning starters to the Illinios line. He has a nice combonation of size and speed, but has displayed inconsistency during his career recording just 22 tackles and 2.5 sacks last season. This year he has improved on those numbers with 25 Tackles, 7 for loss with 6 sacks and a 34 yard INT to go along with 2 fumble recoveries. The other returning starter is Lindquist who is very athletic for a man his size (he played both Hockey and Lacrosse in High School). While perhaps not the stereotypical anchor of an interior line, he can get upfield in a hurry. He has 37 Tackles, 7.5 for loss with 4 sacks in 2008. The youngest of the linemen, Brent has had a very year thus far. A highly touted recruit, Brent has the bulk to be the anchor missing in Lindquist, and the speed to make opposing linemen work hard for their blocks. He has 29 Tackles, 6.5 for loss with 1.5 sacks. Rounding out the starting four is Pilcher who has had moment where he looks unstoppable. He has 19 Tackles, 6 for loss and 2.5 sacks.
Depth comes from Ends; #97 Clay Nurse (6-3, 258, SO), #81 Will Davis (6-3, 268, SR), #99 Jerry Brown (6-4, 251, SO) and Tackles; #93 Corey Liuget (6-3, 283, FR), #98 Daryle Ballew (6-1, 313, rFR). The reserves are led by Will Davis' 32 Tackles, 7 of which have come behind the line and 4 of which have been sacks. A former Wide Reciever, then Tight End, Davis brings speed to the defensive front where he started 4 games in 2007. He has All Big Ten potential for sure. Liuget was a highly sought after recruit who has seen action in 9 games this season recording 20 tackles, 3 for loss with 1.5 sacks, while Nurse has 8 tackles with a sack in 10 games. While Ballew has not yet recorded a Tackle, Brown has 4 with half for loss.
DL Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DL
Rob Rose - 7 Tackles, 1 for loss
Cam Heyward - 22 Tackles, 3 TFL, 1 Sack
Doug Worthing - 23 Tackles, 3 TFL, 1 Fumble Rec.
Thad Gibson - 20 Tackles, 6 TFL, 4 Sack, 1 Fumble Rec. (TD)
There is little question that the Illini have been more successful getting to the QB and making the sack. Likewise, the starting 4 have more tackles than do their Buckeye counterparts, but some of that has to do with the season ending injury to Lawrence Wilson. None-the-less, the Illini front has a good combonation of size and speed to go along with a good mix of veterans and rookies. Despite the activity in the backfield, however, the Buckeyes give up far less yards on the ground than do the Illini and have proven adequate enough in the pass rush - at least as far as passing yards against are a testament to causing the QB to throw the ball before he's quite ready. While the two lines may be even, because Illinois is better at causing disruption at the point of attack, a slight edge goes to them here, though Ohio State's line would probably merit a B- rating as well.
Edge: Illinois
Linebackers
OLB #2 Martez Wilson (6-4, 246, SO)
MLB #44 Brit Miller (6-1, 250, SR)
WLB #45 Rodney Pittman (6-2, 242, SR)
The Illini have replaced J. Leman in the Middle with Brit Miller who has responded by filling the outgoing star's shoes quite well thus far. Miller has an NFL ready body and has very good speed which affords him even more range than had Leman. He is far and away the team leader in tackles with 110, 15.5 of which have come behind the LOS and 6 which have been sacks to go along with a 15 yard INT and a 27 yard Fumble Recovery. Wilson takes over Miller's vacated Strong Side position. The highly recruited Sophomore brings great size and quickness to the outside. If he bulks up much more he may end up as a rush end, but for the moment he is second on the team with 69 Tackles, 5.5 for loss with 3 sacks and a fumble recovery. Pittman, a Senior, also carries excellent size and speed replacing Antonio Steele from last year's corps. He has 38 Tackles, 2.5 for loss with a sack in 2008. While not a liability by any means, Pittman may be the best choice to attack.
Depth is provided by, #43 Sam Carson (6-1, 254, SR), #33 Russell Ellington (6-2, 217, FR), #38 Ian Thomas (6-0, 218, rFR), and #53 Dustin Jefferson (6-0, 230, SO). Carson leads the reserves with 26 Tackles, 2 for loss with a fumble recovery in 10 games. Ellington has 8 tackles in 10 games, while Jefferson has 4 in 9 games and Thomas 3 in 7.
LB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 101 Tackles, 3.0 TFL, 2.5 Sacks, 2 INT
Marcus Freeman - 61 Tackles, 6.5 TFL, 3.5 Sacks
Ross Homan - 60 Tackles, 5 TFL, 2 Fumble Rec.
In terms of tackles, both groups are similar with Miller having 9 more stops than Animal and Wilson having 8 more than Freeman. The difference is between Homan and his 38 tackles and Pittman's 38. The Illini LBs have more sacks and TFLs, while the Buckeyes have recorded one more take-away via pick or fumble recovery. Even if the statistics give a slight edge to the Illini, the Buckeyes have a little more depth. Still the Illinois Defense has given up more points and more yards which speaks to how the men in the middle of the field have been holding up when it counts. While not a striking difference, the edge goes to the Buckeyes at LB.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #1 Vontae Davis (6-0, 204, JR)
FS #4 Donsay Hardeman (6-2, 220, JR)
SS #31 Travon Bellamy (6-0, 207, SO)
LCB #28 Dere Hicks (5-10, 179, JR)
Coming in to the season there was only one corner in the Big Ten who could stake an honest claim on the title of Best Corner in the conference other than Malcolm Jenkins. Like Jenkins, Davis is excellent in coverage while also possessing the ability to deliver the big hit. The is little doubt the All Big Ten selection will be playing on Sundays. he has 64 Tackles, 6 TFLs, 1 INT and a Fumble Recovery thus far. On the othe side Hicks returns for his Junior season. A decent all-around defender, Hicks can struggle at times when going against the better wideouts. Some of that may be a function of teams shying away from Davis. In any case, Hicks is 5th on the team in tackles with 38, 4 for loss with a sack, an INT and 2 fumble recoveries. Replacing Justin Harrison at Strong Safety is Travon Bellamy. Built more like a Corner, Bellamy will be able to stay with about anyone he's matched up with in coverage. He missed all of 2007 with injury but has remained healthy this year. In 10 games he has 52 Tackles. Replacing Mitchell at Free Safety is JUCO transfer Donsay Hardeman. He brings both size and speed to the secondary, as well as some ball-hawking ability. He has 37 Tackles, .5 for loss with a pick and a fumble recovery.
Reserves include Corners; #3 Tavon Wilson (6-0, 191, FR), and #27 Antonio Gully (6-1, 183, SO), and Safeties; #24 Bo Flowers (6-2, 218, SO), and #20 Garrett Edwards (6-2, 214, SO). Flowers is a 24 year old Sophomore who played baseball in the Chicago Cubs and Detroit Tiger systems before returning to football. A former QB, he brings solid size and smarts. He has 16 Tackles, 1 for loss in 7 games this season. Wilson has 8 tackles and half a TFL in 9 games, while Edwards has 14 tackles in 9 games. Gully has just 3 stops in 4 games.
DB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DBs
Malcolm Jenkins - 47 Tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 Sack 3 INTs
Anderson Russell - 52 Tackles, 1 INT, 2 Fumble Rec.
Kurt Coleman - 46 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 sack, 3 INT
Chimdi Chekwa - 16 Tackles, 1 INT
As good as Davis is, at best he simply cancels out what Jenkins brings to the Buckeyes. The differences between the two units are seen clearly in both the amount of yards yielded per game as well as the number of INTs each has recorded. Still, the Illini stepped up huge against Ohio State in 2007 and will be looking to do so again this season against Terrelle Pryor. The Illini have struggled against the more efficient passers, and despite being a Freshman and having several true passes dropped, Pryor has been just that with his 153.6 QB rating. If the secondary is forced in to having to play run support, the yards could open up. It will also be interesting to see if Ohio State takes advantage of the short route, which Illinois seemed willing to yield in '07, but which Ohio State never really exploited.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Illini defense is getting closer and closer to some of the better units in their history. While not quite among the top corps just yet, there is talent and potential at every position. There has been some minimal gain over last year's stop forces in terms of yards yielded, but the unit is till only middle tier in the big Ten. This group gives up far too many points as well and seems to be struggling generally, despite statistically decent numbers out of the starting group. Look for Ohio State to pound Beanie early and often as the Illini have given up over 140 yards per game. As Beanie gains success the passing game can open up as well. Ohio State should think carefully about simply trying the deep ball and take advantage of the short routes, assuming Illinois plans on using a similar game plan to 2007. The short routes would help with Pryor's comfort level (as if that were even a problem) and get him in a solid groove as the game progresses. In any event, the Illini are an improved defense when looking at a span of several years, but there is still some way to go before it is among the league's elite.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
Returning Starters: 3
2007 Stats
Punting: Anthony Santella 64 for 2410 yds, 37.66 avg 100th in the Nation
Punt Returns: Kyle Hudson 17 for 128 yds 7.53 avg 65th in the Nation
Kicking: Matt Eller 36 of 38 PATs, 12 of 17 FGs
Kickoff Returns: No one in top 100 (team stats 40 for 762 yds 19.05 avg 103rd in the Nation)
Punt Return Defense: 22 for 199 yds 9.05 avg 62nd in the Nation
Kickoff Return Defense: 64 for 1181 yds 18.45 avg 12th in the Nation
2008 Stats
Punting: Anthony Santella 44 for 1742 39.59 avg 70th in the Nation
Punt Returns: Arrelious Benn, 11 for 111 yds, 10.1 avg, team- 14 for 114 yds 8.14 avg 72nd in the Nation
Kickoff Returns: A.J. Jenkins 18 for 439 yds 24.39 avg 1 TD 43rd in the Nation, Arrelious Benn 16 for 345 yds 21.6 avg
Punt Return Defense: 21 for 202 yds 9.62 avg 72nd in the Nation
Kickoff Return Defense: 47 for 1151 yds 24.49 avg 2 TDs 107th in the Nation
Illinois brings one of the weakest Special Teams units that the Buckeyes have faced all year. They rank in bottom half of practically every Special team statistical category. They have also given up 2 TDs. This will be an excellent opportunity for the Buckeyes to seize control early and take the crowd out of the game.
Special Teams
P #87 Anthony Santella (6-2, 190, So., Wauconda HS, Wauconda, IL)
PK #84 Matt Eller (6-1, 201, Fr., Bishop Kenny HS, Jacksonville, FL)
PR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2, 214, So., Dunbar HS, Washington, D.C.)
KR #8 A.J. Jenkins (6-0, 175, Fr., Parker HS, Jacksonville, FL)
KR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2, 214, So., Dunbar HS, Washington, D.C.)
LS #59 Tad Keely (6-1, 220, So., Oswego HS, Oswego IL)
Kicker Eller has decent range having hit on 7 of 9 from 40 yds and longer. Punter Santella is averaging 39.6 yds per punt with 7 over 50 yds. Aurrelious Benn is a dangerous returner, but overall the Illini Special Teams don't frighten anyone. If the OSU teams play to their average and the Illini do the same, field position will easily be in the Buckeyes' favor.
ST Rating: D
Head-to-Head: Benn/Jenkins versus OSU STs
While Illinois certainly has speed to burn in their returners, their overall results are not game-changing. If the Buckeyes stay in their lanes and fight off blocks like they have so far this season, they should win this battle.
Edge: Ohio State
Head-to-Head: Hartline/Robiske/Wells/Thomas versus Illinois STs
The Buckeyes continue to struggle in the Kickoff return unit, but this weekend is a real opportunity to make great strides. The Illini are only 107th in the Nation in Kickoff return defense. On punts, Illinois is only 72nd in the Nation. Look for Ohio State to exploit these teams and give their offense a short field.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
While the Illinois returners Benn and Jenkins are fast and elusive, the overall special teams play for them is among the worst statistically in the Nation. The Buckeyes are strong in most of their ST play (save for Kickoff returns) and should be able to use this to their advantage. Look for the Bucks to work from a short field all day.
Punting: Anthony Santella 64 for 2410 yds, 37.66 avg 100th in the Nation
Punt Returns: Kyle Hudson 17 for 128 yds 7.53 avg 65th in the Nation
Kicking: Matt Eller 36 of 38 PATs, 12 of 17 FGs
Kickoff Returns: No one in top 100 (team stats 40 for 762 yds 19.05 avg 103rd in the Nation)
Punt Return Defense: 22 for 199 yds 9.05 avg 62nd in the Nation
Kickoff Return Defense: 64 for 1181 yds 18.45 avg 12th in the Nation
2008 Stats
Punting: Anthony Santella 44 for 1742 39.59 avg 70th in the Nation
Punt Returns: Arrelious Benn, 11 for 111 yds, 10.1 avg, team- 14 for 114 yds 8.14 avg 72nd in the Nation
Kickoff Returns: A.J. Jenkins 18 for 439 yds 24.39 avg 1 TD 43rd in the Nation, Arrelious Benn 16 for 345 yds 21.6 avg
Punt Return Defense: 21 for 202 yds 9.62 avg 72nd in the Nation
Kickoff Return Defense: 47 for 1151 yds 24.49 avg 2 TDs 107th in the Nation
Illinois brings one of the weakest Special Teams units that the Buckeyes have faced all year. They rank in bottom half of practically every Special team statistical category. They have also given up 2 TDs. This will be an excellent opportunity for the Buckeyes to seize control early and take the crowd out of the game.
Special Teams
P #87 Anthony Santella (6-2, 190, So., Wauconda HS, Wauconda, IL)
PK #84 Matt Eller (6-1, 201, Fr., Bishop Kenny HS, Jacksonville, FL)
PR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2, 214, So., Dunbar HS, Washington, D.C.)
KR #8 A.J. Jenkins (6-0, 175, Fr., Parker HS, Jacksonville, FL)
KR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2, 214, So., Dunbar HS, Washington, D.C.)
LS #59 Tad Keely (6-1, 220, So., Oswego HS, Oswego IL)
Kicker Eller has decent range having hit on 7 of 9 from 40 yds and longer. Punter Santella is averaging 39.6 yds per punt with 7 over 50 yds. Aurrelious Benn is a dangerous returner, but overall the Illini Special Teams don't frighten anyone. If the OSU teams play to their average and the Illini do the same, field position will easily be in the Buckeyes' favor.
ST Rating: D
Head-to-Head: Benn/Jenkins versus OSU STs
While Illinois certainly has speed to burn in their returners, their overall results are not game-changing. If the Buckeyes stay in their lanes and fight off blocks like they have so far this season, they should win this battle.
Edge: Ohio State
Head-to-Head: Hartline/Robiske/Wells/Thomas versus Illinois STs
The Buckeyes continue to struggle in the Kickoff return unit, but this weekend is a real opportunity to make great strides. The Illini are only 107th in the Nation in Kickoff return defense. On punts, Illinois is only 72nd in the Nation. Look for Ohio State to exploit these teams and give their offense a short field.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
While the Illinois returners Benn and Jenkins are fast and elusive, the overall special teams play for them is among the worst statistically in the Nation. The Buckeyes are strong in most of their ST play (save for Kickoff returns) and should be able to use this to their advantage. Look for the Bucks to work from a short field all day.
Overall Special Teams Rating: D
Predictions
BB73's prediction: 20-10, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 24-17, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-14, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 38-31, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 38-23, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-24, Ohio State
JCOSU's Prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 45 - Northwestern 10)Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-14, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 38-31, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 38-23, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-24, Ohio State
JCOSU's Prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(195) Bucklion's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (24 + 171 last week = 195)
(195) jwinslow's prediction: 45-10, Ohio State (ZERO + 195 last week = 195)
(206) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-13, Penn State (17 + 189 last week = 206)
(206) JCOSU86's prediction: 45-7, Ohio State (3 + 203 last week = 206)
(224) BB73's prediction: 38-13, Ohio State (10 + 214 last week = 224)
(224) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 45-10, Ohio State (ZERO + 224 last week = 224)
(241) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-12, Ohio State (19 + 222 last week = 241)
(244) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (24 + 220 last week = 244)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
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