2010 Illinois Fighting Illini Game Preview
written by: BB73, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, Bucky Katt, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, and jwinslow
written by: BB73, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, Bucky Katt, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, and jwinslow
Preface
Saturday marks the opening of conference play within the Big Ten. Since joining the Big Ten Conference in 1913, Ohio State is 70-23-4 in conference openers. With their victory over TSUN in November, 2008, tOSU took over the best record among all-time conference games.
Here is a decade by decade listing of the all-time W-L records for both teams (Big Ten Conference games only):
...........Decade...Decade...All-time..All-time..........Decade...Decade....All-time..All-time
.....TSUN..W--L--T..win-%.....W---L--T...win%......tOSU..W--L--T..win-%.....W---L--T...win-%
1890s.....08-03-01..72.73%..008-003-01..72.73%...........0--0--0...N/A......0---0--0.....N/A
1900s.....20-03-01..85.42%..028-006-01..81.43%...........0--0--0...N/A......0---0--0.....N/A
1910s.....03-05-00..37.50%..031-011-01..73.26%..........16-09-01..63.46%..016-009-01..63.46%
1920s.....32-14-02..68.75%..063-025-03..70.88%..........23-23-04..50.00%..039-032-05..54.61%
1930s.....32-21-02..60.00%..095-046-05..66.78%..........39-12-04..74.55%..078-044-09..62.98%
1940s.....46-09-03..81.90%..141-055-08..71.08%..........33-22-04..59.32%..111-066-13..61.82%
1950s.....37-26-03..58.33%..178-081-11..67.69%..........46-16-05..72.39%..157-082-18..64.59%
1960s.....35-31-02..52.94%..213-112-13..64.94%..........50-14-01..77.69%..207-096-19..67.24%
1970s.....69-09-01..87.97%..282-121-14..69.30%..........69-09-01..87.97%..276-105-20..71.32%
1980s.....68-14-02..82.14%..350-135-16..71.46%..........57-24-01..70.12%..333-129-24..71.12%
1990s.....61-17-02..77.50%..411-152-18..72.29%..........57-20-03..73.12%..390-149-24..71.40%
2000s.....53-27-00..66.25%..464-179-18..71.56%..........64-16-00..80.00%..454-165-24..72.47%
Let's look at some history of championships in the Big Ten, since the Buckeyes can set some marks this year. Ohio State has won at least a share of the last five Big Ten Championships and will look to become the first school in conference history to win six or more straight crowns on multiple occasions during the 2010 campaign. The Buckeyes shared the crown with Penn State in 2005 and 2008 and ended the 2006, '07, and '09 seasons alone atop the standings to compile a Big Ten mark of 36-4 over the last five years. Ohio State has clinched five consecutive crowns for the first time since posting a Big Ten-record six straight titles from 1972-77. Michigan and Ohio State are the only two teams in Big Ten annals to post four or more consecutive first-place finishes on multiple occasions, accomplishing the feat a combined seven different times.
At least 5 straight Big Ten Football Titles:
6, 1972-77 tOSU, under Woody Hayes
5, 2005-09 tOSU, under Jim Tressel
5, 1988-92 TSUN, under Bo Schembechler and Gary Moeller
Multiple Big Ten Championships for Current Coaches:
6 - Jim Tressel, tOSU (2002, '05, '06, '07, '08, '09)
3 - Joe Paterno, PSU (1994, 2005, '08)
2 - Kirk Ferentz, Iowa (2002, '04)
Additionally, here are the best regular season winning streaks ever for Big Ten teams, both overall and strictly in conference play.
Longest regular season winning streaks by Big Ten football teams:
28 games - 2005-07, Ohio State (snapped by Illinois)
28 games - 1950-53, Michigan State (joined conference in 1953)
28 games - 1901-03, Michigan
26 games - 1903-05, Michigan
Longest Big Ten winning streaks, conference games only:
20 games - 2005-07, Ohio State (snapped by Illinois)
19 games - 1990-92, Michigan
So the 2007 upset prevented tOSU from extending some significant Big Ten records, and some are still looking for payback with this trip. 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 5 contests in Columbus (and 6 of 10), including the 2007 shocker; and 9 of the last 20 (JT's quote about Illinois being 9-10 in the last 19 this week was inaccurate). The Buckeyes have won seven 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. In the 1921 game in Columbus, Zuppke played only 11 men and utilized a new "drop back" pass defense to frustrate heavily favored tOSU 7-0. A Chicago sportswriter at the game was impressed with Illinois' determination, and when he called them he "Fighting Illini" in the Sunday Tribune, the nickname stuck.
Illinois coach Ron Zook was an Ohio State assistant from 1988-90.
Date and TimeHere is a decade by decade listing of the all-time W-L records for both teams (Big Ten Conference games only):
...........Decade...Decade...All-time..All-time..........Decade...Decade....All-time..All-time
.....TSUN..W--L--T..win-%.....W---L--T...win%......tOSU..W--L--T..win-%.....W---L--T...win-%
1890s.....08-03-01..72.73%..008-003-01..72.73%...........0--0--0...N/A......0---0--0.....N/A
1900s.....20-03-01..85.42%..028-006-01..81.43%...........0--0--0...N/A......0---0--0.....N/A
1910s.....03-05-00..37.50%..031-011-01..73.26%..........16-09-01..63.46%..016-009-01..63.46%
1920s.....32-14-02..68.75%..063-025-03..70.88%..........23-23-04..50.00%..039-032-05..54.61%
1930s.....32-21-02..60.00%..095-046-05..66.78%..........39-12-04..74.55%..078-044-09..62.98%
1940s.....46-09-03..81.90%..141-055-08..71.08%..........33-22-04..59.32%..111-066-13..61.82%
1950s.....37-26-03..58.33%..178-081-11..67.69%..........46-16-05..72.39%..157-082-18..64.59%
1960s.....35-31-02..52.94%..213-112-13..64.94%..........50-14-01..77.69%..207-096-19..67.24%
1970s.....69-09-01..87.97%..282-121-14..69.30%..........69-09-01..87.97%..276-105-20..71.32%
1980s.....68-14-02..82.14%..350-135-16..71.46%..........57-24-01..70.12%..333-129-24..71.12%
1990s.....61-17-02..77.50%..411-152-18..72.29%..........57-20-03..73.12%..390-149-24..71.40%
2000s.....53-27-00..66.25%..464-179-18..71.56%..........64-16-00..80.00%..454-165-24..72.47%
Let's look at some history of championships in the Big Ten, since the Buckeyes can set some marks this year. Ohio State has won at least a share of the last five Big Ten Championships and will look to become the first school in conference history to win six or more straight crowns on multiple occasions during the 2010 campaign. The Buckeyes shared the crown with Penn State in 2005 and 2008 and ended the 2006, '07, and '09 seasons alone atop the standings to compile a Big Ten mark of 36-4 over the last five years. Ohio State has clinched five consecutive crowns for the first time since posting a Big Ten-record six straight titles from 1972-77. Michigan and Ohio State are the only two teams in Big Ten annals to post four or more consecutive first-place finishes on multiple occasions, accomplishing the feat a combined seven different times.
At least 5 straight Big Ten Football Titles:
6, 1972-77 tOSU, under Woody Hayes
5, 2005-09 tOSU, under Jim Tressel
5, 1988-92 TSUN, under Bo Schembechler and Gary Moeller
Multiple Big Ten Championships for Current Coaches:
6 - Jim Tressel, tOSU (2002, '05, '06, '07, '08, '09)
3 - Joe Paterno, PSU (1994, 2005, '08)
2 - Kirk Ferentz, Iowa (2002, '04)
Additionally, here are the best regular season winning streaks ever for Big Ten teams, both overall and strictly in conference play.
Longest regular season winning streaks by Big Ten football teams:
28 games - 2005-07, Ohio State (snapped by Illinois)
28 games - 1950-53, Michigan State (joined conference in 1953)
28 games - 1901-03, Michigan
26 games - 1903-05, Michigan
Longest Big Ten winning streaks, conference games only:
20 games - 2005-07, Ohio State (snapped by Illinois)
19 games - 1990-92, Michigan
So the 2007 upset prevented tOSU from extending some significant Big Ten records, and some are still looking for payback with this trip. 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 5 contests in Columbus (and 6 of 10), including the 2007 shocker; and 9 of the last 20 (JT's quote about Illinois being 9-10 in the last 19 this week was inaccurate). The Buckeyes have won seven 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. In the 1921 game in Columbus, Zuppke played only 11 men and utilized a new "drop back" pass defense to frustrate heavily favored tOSU 7-0. A Chicago sportswriter at the game was impressed with Illinois' determination, and when he called them he "Fighting Illini" in the Sunday Tribune, the nickname stuck.
Illinois coach Ron Zook was an Ohio State assistant from 1988-90.
Date: Saturday, October 2nd, 2010
Time: Noon ET Kick-off
Location: Memorial Stadium - Champaign, Illinois
Constructed: 1923 (Renovated in 2008)
Seating Capacity: 62,870
Playing Surface: FieldTurf (new in 2008, formerly AstroPlay)
Time: Noon ET Kick-off
Location: Memorial Stadium - Champaign, Illinois
Constructed: 1923 (Renovated in 2008)
Seating Capacity: 62,870
Playing Surface: FieldTurf (new in 2008, formerly AstroPlay)
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: BTN: Eric Collins (Play-by-play), Chris Martin (Analysis), and Charissa Thompson (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (97.1 FM TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2010 Illinois Fighting Illini Offensive Preview
The Buckeyes come off of their epic blowout of Eastern Michigan by opening Big Ten play against Illinois, who have been a historical and recent thorn in the side of the Buckeyes. The Ron Zook era appears to be drawing to a close in Champaign, as after the Rose Bowl campaign of 2007 the Illini have gone steadily downhill, and they now have several key positions filled by young and/or inexperienced players. Gone are Juice Williams, Arrelious Benn, and several other dynamic but erratic players who symbolized the Zook era. The Illinois offense, especially in the passing game, is more or less starting over again, and it has a very difficult challenge in front of them right out of the gate in conference play. As a result, expect more traditional ground and pound this weekend as Illinois tries to keep the game close and have a chance to win at the end. Coordinator Paul Petrino has his work cut out for him this week.
The Illini enter the game ranked 75th nationally in total offense with 359 yards per game. They rank 18th in the nation in running the ball at 229 yard per game, but are ranked near the bottom of the FBS at 113th in passing the football (137.3 YPG). Their scoring average of 25.3 PPG is ranked only 69th. In terms of moving the chains, they have made 57 first downs in 3 games, and they are converting a respectable 43.6% of their 3rd downs (30th). Most telling perhaps is that they had 16 first downs and only 281 total yards (and only 81 passing yards) against their only major competition of the season so far, Missouri. The Buckeye defense will offer an even bigger challenge for an offense that employs younger players at several key positions. If the Buckeyes stuff the run early, there is no indication the Illini can throw effectively downfield to loosen up the defense or get themselves back in a ballgame if they fall behind.
Quarterbacks
QB #2 Nathan Scheelhaase (6-3, 195, FR, Rockhurst HS, Kansas City, MO)
Last year brought the end of the Juice Williams era, and his backup and occasional spot starting counterpart, Eddie McGee, has been converted to a receiver. So enter Scheelhaase, who also is a dual threat type of QB who can make plays in the passing game and in the running game. On the ground, he appears to be a consistent threat with decent speed and good toughness. In the passing game, he is still erratic and prone to making questionable decisions. His first start against Missouri was a disaster, completing only 9 of 23 for 81 yards with a TD and 3 INTs, though he did have 76 yards on the ground on 16 carries. Against Southern Illinois, he concentrated on passing, as he rushed for only 13 yards on 8 carries but threw for 229 yards and a pair of scores on 14 of 18 completions. Last game against Northern Illinois, the Husky defense frustrated him in the passing game, as he was just 8 of 16 for 70 yards, but he did have 115 yards and a TD on the ground in 16 attempts. These stats all indicate that Illinois is running quite a bit out of their spread this season as their new QB gets more comfortable delivering the ball down the field. Expect the Buckeyes to try and contain the pocket and force Scheelhaase to try and beat them with his arm, something he has not been particularly effective doing against FBS competition so far.
The backups are a pair of freshmen, Miles Osei (#16) and Chandler Whitmer (#7), who have virtually no experience of any kind. Neither has attempted a pass. The only other player to have thrown a pass this season is McGee, who is 1 of 3 for 10 yards and 2 picks.
QB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State QBs
Scheelhaase: 31/57 (54.4%), 380 yards, 3 TDs, 3 INTs, 117.2 rating; 40/204, 1 TD
Pryor: 71/107 (66.4%), 939 yards, 10 TDs, 2 INTs, 167.2 rating; 43/269, 3 TDs
Scheelhaase is a dual threat QB who can do some damage with his feet, though he made several questionable decisions passing the ball in the loss to Missouri and did not do much throwing the ball last game against Northern Illinois either. Behind him are a couple of freshmen and McGee, who has 2 INTs in 3 pass attempts thus far in 2010. Pryor is one of the leading Heisman candidates and one of the most dynamic players in the country. The experience in depth also favors the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #5 Mikel Leshoure (6-3, 230, JR, Centennial HS, Champaign, IL)
FB #35 Jay Prosch (6-0, 250, FR, UMS-Wright HS, Mobile, AL)
Leshoure is doubtlessly the best player Illinois has on offense and is one of the premier backs in the Big 10. He is a big battering ram of a runner who also has good speed and can be effective running the ball outside. He was the leading gainer on the ground last season, with 734 yards despite only 3 starts, including 100 yard games against Purdue, Michigan, and Fresno State. This season, as not only the feature back but also the featured player, he is off to a great start, gaining over 100 yards in all 3 contests. He opened with 20 carries for 112 yards against Missouri, and followed that with 14 carries for 106 yards and 2 TDs against Southern Illinois and 24 carries for 180 yards and a TD last week against Northern Illinois. The Buckeyes will get their toughest test to date against the ground game in the 2010 season against Leshoure, who offers a combination of power, speed, and durability that is already propelling him towards a 1000 yard season. It will be important for the Illini to stick to the ground game and establish it early and often to take some pressure off of their QB. Leshoure seems to be up to the challenge.
Illinois has good depth at the position in the form of Jason Ford (#21), who rushed for 588 yards last season and has 10 career starts. He has not seen a lot of the ball thus far in 2010, carrying it only 23 times for 64 yards, but he has scored a TD in each of the previous 2 games. He has similar size (6-0, 235) as Leshoure and many of the same stylistic tendencies. Troy Pollard (#28) is a junior scat back who might also get an occasional carry as a change of pace.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State RBs
Leshoure: 58/398 yards, 3 TDs, 6.9 YPC; 2 rec/9 yards, 0 TDs, 4.5 YPR
Ford: 23/64 yards, 2 TDs, 2.8 YPC; 1 rec/11 yards, 0 TDs, 11.0 YPR
Saine: 36/169 yards, 2 TDs, 4.7 YPC; 8 rec/67 yards, 2 TDs, 8.4 YPR
Herron: 42/192 yards, 4 TDs, 4.6 YPC; 7 rec/109 yards, 0 TDs, 15.6 YPR
Make no mistake, Leshoure can do some damage against any defense, and he is one of the premier backs in the Big 10. He is big, bruising, and has decent speed. Ford has some experience behind him, though his opportunities thus far have been limited. Neither appears to be a major feature of the passing game. The Buckeyes still seem to be finding their way with the backs a bit...both Saine and Herron have appeared at different times to be the top guy, and neither has established himself as the top back. The Buckeyes however have incredible depth, with Berry and Hall awaiting further opportunities to showcase their talents. Leshoure is the best player of the group and has a quality backup in Ford, but the Buckeyes are deep and have a ton of young talent, making this a tough call.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR #11 Jarred Fayson (6-0, 215, SR, Hillsborough HS, Tampa, FL)
WR #8 A.J. Jenkins (6-0, 185, JR, Terry Parker HS, Jacksonville, FL)
WR #10 Eddie McGee (6-4, 210, SR, H.D. Woodson HS, Washington, DC)
This is primarily a 2 man operation, with Jenkins and Fayson having caught 20 of the Illini's 32 completed passes, though the team officially lists Jenkins and McGee as the starters. Jenkins has emerged as the team's big play threat after catching 10 passes a season ago and 11 in 2008. He has good speed and good range and can get open downfield. He caught 5 passes for 114 yards and a TD against Southern Illinois and also scored against Missouri. Fayson transferred from Florida and has made a handful of starts in his Illinois career. He caught 16 passes for 218 yards last season, but has not emerged as a major downfield threat in 2010. He is a reasonable possession-type receiver, having caught 8 passes for 46 yards thus far. He has good size and could be dangerous on fades against smaller corners. McGee of course is well versed in the offense, having been a QB for 3 years. His impact in the passing game thus far has been minimal, catching just 2 passes for 28 yards thus far.
A number of additional players could see the field. Junior Fred Sykes (#17) has started 10 games and caught 24 passes in his career thus far. He has 2 receptions for 22 yards this year and will likely be part of a rotation against the Buckeyes. Freshman Darius Millines (#15) is a burner who could be a star of the future. He started the Southern Illinois game but has not caught a pass. Senior Chris James (#6), sophomore Jack Ramsey (#19) and freshman Ryan Lankford (#12) round out the chart.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State WRs
Jenkins: 12 catches, 190 yards, 2 TDs, 15.8 YPR
Fayson: 8 catches, 46 yards, 0 TDs, 5.8 YPR
McGee: 2 catches, 28 yards, 0 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 20 catches, 316 yards, 5 TDs, 15.8 YPR
Posey: 15 catches, 242 yards, 2 TDs, 16.1 YPR
Jenkins appears to be a legitimate threat down the field, and though Fayson has not emerged as a big-time receiver after transferring from Florida, he is still a big target and a good possession receiver. Like the Buckeyes, the Illini do not go much deeper than that, though McGee has plenty of athleticism and experience in the offense. The Buckeyes are 2-deep, but they are a lethal combination. Sanzenbacher had a monster game last week and may now be the team's elite receiver. Posey is a deadly downfield threat who can also get open anytime and can make big plays. The Illini have run a lot of talent at the receiver position out on the field in recent seasons, but this Buckeye group could surpass Hartline and Robiskie in terms of production and big plays, giving the Buckeyes the edge this year.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #89 Evan Wilson (6-6, 240, FR, Woodstock HS, Woodstock, GA)
Wilson is another young player that is a potential star of the future. He has good size and is a good blocker, and he can be a threat down the field, though he has caught just one pass thus far for 34 yards. Fellow freshman Justin Lattimore (#88) is also a capable blocker and a downfield threat, having caught a 33-yard TD pass.
TE Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State TEs
Wilson: 1 catch, 34 yards, 0 TD, 34.0 YPR
Stoneburner: 9 catches, 110 yards, 1 TD, 12.2 YPR
The Illini have not featured the TE much in the passing game this year, a departure from recent seasons. Wilson is a young player who needs time to mature and learn the nuances of the offense, but he is a big target and a capable blocker, similar to fellow TE Lattimore. Stoneburner seems comfortable over the middle and hopefully will be back involved in the passing game this week. He is also an adequate blocker and is more proven in the passing game.
Edge: Ohio State
Offensive Line
WT #71 Jeff Allen (6-5, 305, JR, King HS, Chicago, IL)
WG #72 High Thornton (6-5, 310, SO, Oberlin HS, Oberlin, OH)
C #76 Graham Pocic (6-7, 305, SO, Lemont HS, Lemont, IL)
SG #66 Randall Hunt (6-6, 315, SR, Hightstown HS, Hightstown, NJ)
ST #78 Ryan Palmer (6-7, 310, SR, Glen Oak HS, Canton, OH)
The line is an area that the Illini have some experience, which could keep their running game consistent and the team competitive in most games. Allen has started 24 straight games and might be the best player of the group. He has been a captain the past 3 weeks and is an anchor on the weak side. He was also a freshman All-American in 2008 as a starter at right tackle. He moved to the left side last season. Hunt is also a 2-year starter with 14 career starts. Ohio product Palmer started 3 games in 2008 and 5 games last season, and is now entrenched on the strong side. Thornton started 7 games at T last season before sliding to the interior this year. Pocic is a player on the rise who has established himself in the middle. Collectively, this is a tall and physical group, perfect for the power running game that Leshoure and Ford can provide. Do not be surprised if Illinois is near the top of the conference in rushing again this season after finishing 2nd last year. The running game is daunting, but the line seems less designed for pass blocking, and the passing game has been well below average. They have only given up 5 sacks, but that's still a pretty high number in 3 games for a team with a mobile QB that doesn't throw the ball that much.
The reserves include senior Anterio Jackson (#55), juniors Jack Cornell (#73) and Craig Wilson (#79), sophomore Tyler Sands (#61), and freshman Jake Feldmeyer (#67). Of this group, only Sands has a start.
QB #2 Nathan Scheelhaase (6-3, 195, FR, Rockhurst HS, Kansas City, MO)
Last year brought the end of the Juice Williams era, and his backup and occasional spot starting counterpart, Eddie McGee, has been converted to a receiver. So enter Scheelhaase, who also is a dual threat type of QB who can make plays in the passing game and in the running game. On the ground, he appears to be a consistent threat with decent speed and good toughness. In the passing game, he is still erratic and prone to making questionable decisions. His first start against Missouri was a disaster, completing only 9 of 23 for 81 yards with a TD and 3 INTs, though he did have 76 yards on the ground on 16 carries. Against Southern Illinois, he concentrated on passing, as he rushed for only 13 yards on 8 carries but threw for 229 yards and a pair of scores on 14 of 18 completions. Last game against Northern Illinois, the Husky defense frustrated him in the passing game, as he was just 8 of 16 for 70 yards, but he did have 115 yards and a TD on the ground in 16 attempts. These stats all indicate that Illinois is running quite a bit out of their spread this season as their new QB gets more comfortable delivering the ball down the field. Expect the Buckeyes to try and contain the pocket and force Scheelhaase to try and beat them with his arm, something he has not been particularly effective doing against FBS competition so far.
The backups are a pair of freshmen, Miles Osei (#16) and Chandler Whitmer (#7), who have virtually no experience of any kind. Neither has attempted a pass. The only other player to have thrown a pass this season is McGee, who is 1 of 3 for 10 yards and 2 picks.
QB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State QBs
Scheelhaase: 31/57 (54.4%), 380 yards, 3 TDs, 3 INTs, 117.2 rating; 40/204, 1 TD
Pryor: 71/107 (66.4%), 939 yards, 10 TDs, 2 INTs, 167.2 rating; 43/269, 3 TDs
Scheelhaase is a dual threat QB who can do some damage with his feet, though he made several questionable decisions passing the ball in the loss to Missouri and did not do much throwing the ball last game against Northern Illinois either. Behind him are a couple of freshmen and McGee, who has 2 INTs in 3 pass attempts thus far in 2010. Pryor is one of the leading Heisman candidates and one of the most dynamic players in the country. The experience in depth also favors the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #5 Mikel Leshoure (6-3, 230, JR, Centennial HS, Champaign, IL)
FB #35 Jay Prosch (6-0, 250, FR, UMS-Wright HS, Mobile, AL)
Leshoure is doubtlessly the best player Illinois has on offense and is one of the premier backs in the Big 10. He is a big battering ram of a runner who also has good speed and can be effective running the ball outside. He was the leading gainer on the ground last season, with 734 yards despite only 3 starts, including 100 yard games against Purdue, Michigan, and Fresno State. This season, as not only the feature back but also the featured player, he is off to a great start, gaining over 100 yards in all 3 contests. He opened with 20 carries for 112 yards against Missouri, and followed that with 14 carries for 106 yards and 2 TDs against Southern Illinois and 24 carries for 180 yards and a TD last week against Northern Illinois. The Buckeyes will get their toughest test to date against the ground game in the 2010 season against Leshoure, who offers a combination of power, speed, and durability that is already propelling him towards a 1000 yard season. It will be important for the Illini to stick to the ground game and establish it early and often to take some pressure off of their QB. Leshoure seems to be up to the challenge.
Illinois has good depth at the position in the form of Jason Ford (#21), who rushed for 588 yards last season and has 10 career starts. He has not seen a lot of the ball thus far in 2010, carrying it only 23 times for 64 yards, but he has scored a TD in each of the previous 2 games. He has similar size (6-0, 235) as Leshoure and many of the same stylistic tendencies. Troy Pollard (#28) is a junior scat back who might also get an occasional carry as a change of pace.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State RBs
Leshoure: 58/398 yards, 3 TDs, 6.9 YPC; 2 rec/9 yards, 0 TDs, 4.5 YPR
Ford: 23/64 yards, 2 TDs, 2.8 YPC; 1 rec/11 yards, 0 TDs, 11.0 YPR
Saine: 36/169 yards, 2 TDs, 4.7 YPC; 8 rec/67 yards, 2 TDs, 8.4 YPR
Herron: 42/192 yards, 4 TDs, 4.6 YPC; 7 rec/109 yards, 0 TDs, 15.6 YPR
Make no mistake, Leshoure can do some damage against any defense, and he is one of the premier backs in the Big 10. He is big, bruising, and has decent speed. Ford has some experience behind him, though his opportunities thus far have been limited. Neither appears to be a major feature of the passing game. The Buckeyes still seem to be finding their way with the backs a bit...both Saine and Herron have appeared at different times to be the top guy, and neither has established himself as the top back. The Buckeyes however have incredible depth, with Berry and Hall awaiting further opportunities to showcase their talents. Leshoure is the best player of the group and has a quality backup in Ford, but the Buckeyes are deep and have a ton of young talent, making this a tough call.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR #11 Jarred Fayson (6-0, 215, SR, Hillsborough HS, Tampa, FL)
WR #8 A.J. Jenkins (6-0, 185, JR, Terry Parker HS, Jacksonville, FL)
WR #10 Eddie McGee (6-4, 210, SR, H.D. Woodson HS, Washington, DC)
This is primarily a 2 man operation, with Jenkins and Fayson having caught 20 of the Illini's 32 completed passes, though the team officially lists Jenkins and McGee as the starters. Jenkins has emerged as the team's big play threat after catching 10 passes a season ago and 11 in 2008. He has good speed and good range and can get open downfield. He caught 5 passes for 114 yards and a TD against Southern Illinois and also scored against Missouri. Fayson transferred from Florida and has made a handful of starts in his Illinois career. He caught 16 passes for 218 yards last season, but has not emerged as a major downfield threat in 2010. He is a reasonable possession-type receiver, having caught 8 passes for 46 yards thus far. He has good size and could be dangerous on fades against smaller corners. McGee of course is well versed in the offense, having been a QB for 3 years. His impact in the passing game thus far has been minimal, catching just 2 passes for 28 yards thus far.
A number of additional players could see the field. Junior Fred Sykes (#17) has started 10 games and caught 24 passes in his career thus far. He has 2 receptions for 22 yards this year and will likely be part of a rotation against the Buckeyes. Freshman Darius Millines (#15) is a burner who could be a star of the future. He started the Southern Illinois game but has not caught a pass. Senior Chris James (#6), sophomore Jack Ramsey (#19) and freshman Ryan Lankford (#12) round out the chart.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State WRs
Jenkins: 12 catches, 190 yards, 2 TDs, 15.8 YPR
Fayson: 8 catches, 46 yards, 0 TDs, 5.8 YPR
McGee: 2 catches, 28 yards, 0 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 20 catches, 316 yards, 5 TDs, 15.8 YPR
Posey: 15 catches, 242 yards, 2 TDs, 16.1 YPR
Jenkins appears to be a legitimate threat down the field, and though Fayson has not emerged as a big-time receiver after transferring from Florida, he is still a big target and a good possession receiver. Like the Buckeyes, the Illini do not go much deeper than that, though McGee has plenty of athleticism and experience in the offense. The Buckeyes are 2-deep, but they are a lethal combination. Sanzenbacher had a monster game last week and may now be the team's elite receiver. Posey is a deadly downfield threat who can also get open anytime and can make big plays. The Illini have run a lot of talent at the receiver position out on the field in recent seasons, but this Buckeye group could surpass Hartline and Robiskie in terms of production and big plays, giving the Buckeyes the edge this year.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #89 Evan Wilson (6-6, 240, FR, Woodstock HS, Woodstock, GA)
Wilson is another young player that is a potential star of the future. He has good size and is a good blocker, and he can be a threat down the field, though he has caught just one pass thus far for 34 yards. Fellow freshman Justin Lattimore (#88) is also a capable blocker and a downfield threat, having caught a 33-yard TD pass.
TE Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State TEs
Wilson: 1 catch, 34 yards, 0 TD, 34.0 YPR
Stoneburner: 9 catches, 110 yards, 1 TD, 12.2 YPR
The Illini have not featured the TE much in the passing game this year, a departure from recent seasons. Wilson is a young player who needs time to mature and learn the nuances of the offense, but he is a big target and a capable blocker, similar to fellow TE Lattimore. Stoneburner seems comfortable over the middle and hopefully will be back involved in the passing game this week. He is also an adequate blocker and is more proven in the passing game.
Edge: Ohio State
Offensive Line
WT #71 Jeff Allen (6-5, 305, JR, King HS, Chicago, IL)
WG #72 High Thornton (6-5, 310, SO, Oberlin HS, Oberlin, OH)
C #76 Graham Pocic (6-7, 305, SO, Lemont HS, Lemont, IL)
SG #66 Randall Hunt (6-6, 315, SR, Hightstown HS, Hightstown, NJ)
ST #78 Ryan Palmer (6-7, 310, SR, Glen Oak HS, Canton, OH)
The line is an area that the Illini have some experience, which could keep their running game consistent and the team competitive in most games. Allen has started 24 straight games and might be the best player of the group. He has been a captain the past 3 weeks and is an anchor on the weak side. He was also a freshman All-American in 2008 as a starter at right tackle. He moved to the left side last season. Hunt is also a 2-year starter with 14 career starts. Ohio product Palmer started 3 games in 2008 and 5 games last season, and is now entrenched on the strong side. Thornton started 7 games at T last season before sliding to the interior this year. Pocic is a player on the rise who has established himself in the middle. Collectively, this is a tall and physical group, perfect for the power running game that Leshoure and Ford can provide. Do not be surprised if Illinois is near the top of the conference in rushing again this season after finishing 2nd last year. The running game is daunting, but the line seems less designed for pass blocking, and the passing game has been well below average. They have only given up 5 sacks, but that's still a pretty high number in 3 games for a team with a mobile QB that doesn't throw the ball that much.
The reserves include senior Anterio Jackson (#55), juniors Jack Cornell (#73) and Craig Wilson (#79), sophomore Tyler Sands (#61), and freshman Jake Feldmeyer (#67). Of this group, only Sands has a start.
OL Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State OL
The Buckeyes have plenty of talent and experience, but they have not been quite as good as advertised in recent weeks, particularly in terms of the running game. The running game has not been clicking as much as many would like, though the pass blocking has been decent. The Illini have been able to run the ball effectively with Leshoure and from the QB spot, though the pass blocking hasn't been stellar. The Illini have good size up front, but they are also starting a couple of younger players along the interior. Though a couple of the players are established quality starters, the Buckeyes have more depth and talent across the entire line. It is up to them to show it on Saturday.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
Overall Analysis: This offense is built for running the football, and the Illini have been doing that very well thus far. However as good as they have been running it, they have been equally poor throwing it, and one-dimensional offenses will have a hard time holding up in conference play in 2010. After a lackluster win over Northern Illinois, the schedule is brutal for Illinois right out of the gate, as they face the best defense in the conference and then face Penn State and Michigan State on the road. The Illini have some experience up front and some quality in the backfield, but inexperience at the QB, receiver, and TE positions will make establishing a passing game very difficult against the Buckeyes. Last year Juice Williams was 13 of 25 for 77 yards and 2 INTs in a shutout loss to the Buckeyes...it is hard to envision a scenario where Sheelhaase will have a great deal more success. If the Illini can run the ball effectively, they can move the ball, control the clock, and stay in the game. But everything depends on that though, because they don't have many other options to compete with an elite team.
Overall Offensive Rating: B-
2010 Illinois Fighting Illini Defensive PreviewHead-to-Head: Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State OL
The Buckeyes have plenty of talent and experience, but they have not been quite as good as advertised in recent weeks, particularly in terms of the running game. The running game has not been clicking as much as many would like, though the pass blocking has been decent. The Illini have been able to run the ball effectively with Leshoure and from the QB spot, though the pass blocking hasn't been stellar. The Illini have good size up front, but they are also starting a couple of younger players along the interior. Though a couple of the players are established quality starters, the Buckeyes have more depth and talent across the entire line. It is up to them to show it on Saturday.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
Overall Analysis: This offense is built for running the football, and the Illini have been doing that very well thus far. However as good as they have been running it, they have been equally poor throwing it, and one-dimensional offenses will have a hard time holding up in conference play in 2010. After a lackluster win over Northern Illinois, the schedule is brutal for Illinois right out of the gate, as they face the best defense in the conference and then face Penn State and Michigan State on the road. The Illini have some experience up front and some quality in the backfield, but inexperience at the QB, receiver, and TE positions will make establishing a passing game very difficult against the Buckeyes. Last year Juice Williams was 13 of 25 for 77 yards and 2 INTs in a shutout loss to the Buckeyes...it is hard to envision a scenario where Sheelhaase will have a great deal more success. If the Illini can run the ball effectively, they can move the ball, control the clock, and stay in the game. But everything depends on that though, because they don't have many other options to compete with an elite team.
Overall Offensive Rating: B-
Vic Koenning has joined the Illini staff as Defensive Coordinator. A native of Owasa, Oklahoma and a 1983 graduate of Kansas State, Koenning played for the NFL's Denver Broncos and Green Bay Packers and also for the USFL's Oklahoma Outlaws after a solid career with the Wildcats. The former linebacker became a graduate assistant at Memphis in 1986 and gradually made his way up the coaching ranks. When he left Memphis in 1996 Koenning was in charge of DBs. In 1997, Koenning accepted the position of Defensive Coordinator at Wyoming as Joe Tiller's staff was being replaced upon Tiller's departure to Purdue. After three seasons, Koenning was named head coach, a position he held from 2000-2002. He left Wyoming for Troy, and after two seasons there joined Clemson's staff as a defensive coordinator. From his days at Clemson, Koenning became co-defensive coordinator at his alma mater for one season, 2009. Koenning's teams have generally been productive units and the inclusion of the "Bandit" position suggests a focus on becoming more aggressive and versatile than the Illini have been years past.
Stats......|.Pts..|Tot Yds.|Rush.|Pass.|INT...|Fumbl|Sacks.|3rd D..|.pct.|
Illinois...|.16.0.| 333.0..|102.3|230.7|.0-0..|.5-4.|.7-55.|18-46..|.39%.|
Ohio State.|.14.5.| 240.2 .|.71.0|169.2|.7-161|.10-6|.5-38.|17-53..|.32%.|
...........|1st Ds|TDs R|TDs P|RedZone|.pct.|Tds...|.pct.|.TOF.|
Illinois...|..56..|..2..|..3..|.8-12..|.67%.|.4-12.|.33%.|30:00|
Ohio State.|..49..|..1..|..4..|.4-7...|.57%.|.4-7..|.57%.|25:37|
Illinois is coming off a bye week and consequently has played one less game than the Buckeyes. Despite this fact, Illinois has afforded opponents 999 passing yards to Ohio State's total against of 677. Likewise, opposing rushing attacks have gained a total of 307 yards in three games to Ohio State's rushing against total of 284 in one less game. While the Illini have done a good job getting pressure on quarterbacks, to the tune of 7 sacks, that pressure has not translated into interceptions as of yet. Illinois has yielded more first downs than has Ohio State, but has done a better job in the red zone than have the Buckeyes. While Illinois has been good on third downs, the Buckeyes have been better and this translates to nearly 5 more minutes of rest per game for Ohio State than for the Illini. The Illini have talent and experience but need to show significant improvement over last season's dead last finish in total defense in the Big Ten. Early indications are positive as Illinois ranks 5th in the Big Ten currently in yards against. Ohio State is second to Iowa for the moment. While it remains to be seen how the line stacks up against the run as the season progresses, for the moment Illinois is about 50 yards a game better than the 09 team and nearly 20 yards per game better against the pass.
Defensive Line
DE #85 Whitney Mercilus, (6-3, 265, Soph.)
DT #93 Corey Liuget, (6-3, 300, Jr.)
DT #94 Akeem Spence, (6-1, 305, RFr.)
BANDIT #97 Clay Nurse, (6-3, 260, Sr).
Nurse was Illinois' top pass rusher last season when he earned honorable mention All Big Ten honors. He brings good quickness and athleticism to the line and is a good fit for the hybrid linebacker/end role, despite his 260 pounds. While he has under-performed thus far this season, recording just 3 tackles thus far, he has the potential to break out at any time. The most productive tackler among all linemen thus far is Corey Liuget. A highly sought after recruit, Liuget has great strength and more athleticism than his 300 pounds might otherwise suggest. Solid thus far, the Illini hope he becomes a true force in this his junior campaign. He has 11 tackles thus far, 3 have been for loss with one sack. Spense, like Liuget is extremely athletic for such a big man. The redshirt freshman has worked his way in to the starting role and has the potential to become a true anchor of the line as he continues to mature. He has 4 tackles with a sack thus far. Mercilus brings great speed to the edge of the line and has the potential to become a force out there as he gains experience in this his sophomore season. He has 6 stops with 2 for loss and a sack thus far in 2010. He has also forced a fumble.
Line depth comes from ends: #99 Michael Buchanan, (6-6, 225, Soph.), and #48 Nate Palmer, (6-3, 220, Soph.), and tackles: #98 Darryle Ballew, (6-1, 310, Jr.), #47 Glenn Foster, (6-4, 260, Soph.), and #96 Wisdom Onyebule, (6-3, 280, Jr.). Buchanan and Foster were projected starters coming out of the spring. Both sophomores are undersized for their respective positions, though Buchanan could do well in the Bandit role if he adds some more beef to his 6-6 frame. Each have seen action in the 3 games played this season, Buchanan has 3 tackles and Foster 2. The Illini have had 4 fumble recoveries, and Onyebule has one of them, which he obtained in his only action this season. Ballew has one stop in 3 games, while Palmer has not yet recorded any statistics.
DE #85 Whitney Mercilus, (6-3, 265, Soph.)
DT #93 Corey Liuget, (6-3, 300, Jr.)
DT #94 Akeem Spence, (6-1, 305, RFr.)
BANDIT #97 Clay Nurse, (6-3, 260, Sr).
Nurse was Illinois' top pass rusher last season when he earned honorable mention All Big Ten honors. He brings good quickness and athleticism to the line and is a good fit for the hybrid linebacker/end role, despite his 260 pounds. While he has under-performed thus far this season, recording just 3 tackles thus far, he has the potential to break out at any time. The most productive tackler among all linemen thus far is Corey Liuget. A highly sought after recruit, Liuget has great strength and more athleticism than his 300 pounds might otherwise suggest. Solid thus far, the Illini hope he becomes a true force in this his junior campaign. He has 11 tackles thus far, 3 have been for loss with one sack. Spense, like Liuget is extremely athletic for such a big man. The redshirt freshman has worked his way in to the starting role and has the potential to become a true anchor of the line as he continues to mature. He has 4 tackles with a sack thus far. Mercilus brings great speed to the edge of the line and has the potential to become a force out there as he gains experience in this his sophomore season. He has 6 stops with 2 for loss and a sack thus far in 2010. He has also forced a fumble.
Line depth comes from ends: #99 Michael Buchanan, (6-6, 225, Soph.), and #48 Nate Palmer, (6-3, 220, Soph.), and tackles: #98 Darryle Ballew, (6-1, 310, Jr.), #47 Glenn Foster, (6-4, 260, Soph.), and #96 Wisdom Onyebule, (6-3, 280, Jr.). Buchanan and Foster were projected starters coming out of the spring. Both sophomores are undersized for their respective positions, though Buchanan could do well in the Bandit role if he adds some more beef to his 6-6 frame. Each have seen action in the 3 games played this season, Buchanan has 3 tackles and Foster 2. The Illini have had 4 fumble recoveries, and Onyebule has one of them, which he obtained in his only action this season. Ballew has one stop in 3 games, while Palmer has not yet recorded any statistics.
DL Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DL
The Illinois line has more potential than the B- rating indicates, but they do need to establish consistent production before earning a higher score. Had DT Josh Brent not flunked out of school this unit would be better for sure. Like Ohio State, Illinois has big guys who also bring great quickness to their positions. However, it is the Buckeyes' front four which has been more productive thus far in 2010. Dex Larimore leads the way so far with 11 tackles followed closely by sophomore Johnny Simon's 10. It is interesting that both line's most established presence, Nurse for Illinois and Heyward for the Buckeyes, have been the least productive in terms of bringing ball carriers down with respect to their own units. Heyward, however, has been more productive than Nurse, gaining a fumble recovery, an 80 yard INT return to go along with his seven tackles. The Illini have decent depth, but Ohio State's depth gets a bit of an edge here as well. All in all, the Illini have the talent and potential to perform at a high level, but they need to develop consistent production before they can be considered a more elite group.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
SLB #18 Nate Bussey, (6-2, 220, Sr.)
MLB #2 Martez Wilson, (6-4, 250, Jr.)
WLB #38 Ian Thomas, (6-0, 240, Jr.)
Wilson came to Illinois with a great deal of raw talent. After two seasons of solid production, Wilson began 2009 with 9 tackles in the opener with Missouri, before suffering a neck injury which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Now back healthy, he will be looking to re-establish himself as an NFL caliber linebacker. He's certainly got the size and speed and thus far, has shown every indication of getting it done. He has a team leading 25 tackles, 3 for loss with a sack and a forced fumble. Thomas was the man who stepped in for Wilson last season and earned himself a starting job even with Wilson's return. After recording a team leading 95 stops last year in relief, the speedy and sizable junior provides the Illini with a solid one two puch in 2010. He has one less tackle than Wilson thus far (24), with 4 TFLs one sack and a fumble recovery. Rounding out the starting LB corps is senior Nate Bussey. Bussey was a quarterback in High School and has played safety for the Illini before moving to the LB corps. Bussey has the speed to be a disruptive force out there and will certainly benefit from the inclusion of Wilson and Thomas as running mates. He has 19 stops this season with 2.5 coming for loss.
Backing up the starting corps are #25 Ashante Williams, (5-10, 205, Soph.), #51 Evan Frierson, (6-2, 230, Soph.), and #33 Russell Ellington, (6-2, 235, Jr.). Of the backups, only Williams has recorded any statistics thus far, with 10 stops. Built like a safety, Williams is a tough guy who likes to bring the wood. Frierson started 5 games last season, but has yet to establish himself as a playmaker. While he has not recorded any stats this season, he should see the field on Saturday. Ellington also saw 5 starts a year ago and brings great speed and good size to the unit.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU LBs
When Wilson is healthy, the Illinois LB corps is a very good unit. The starting corps and reserves have a lot of game experience and very good size and athleticism. Likewise, talent is not an issue for the group, though there is some room for living up to that potential as the corps has struggled in creating big plays. Of all LBs, it is Ross Homan who has the most stops, with 26, to go along with a pick, while MLB Brian Rolle has 15 tackles and a pick of his own (touchdown). While Bussey has 14 more stops than does Ohio State's Andrew Sweat, it must be noted that Sweat is often rotated out of the game in favor or the Star position - Tyler Moeller. This is no knock on Sweat, but is testimony of just how good Moeller has been as well as the sort of offensive attacks the Buckeyes have faced thus far in 2010. The Buckeyes' second group has been more productive than have the Illini backups, though Illinois' second team enjoys an experience edge. Both teams enjoy a high level of talent, but it is Ohio State's talent that runs deeper. The Buckeyes get the edge here, but the difference isn't much and Illinois has the talent and potential to out play the Buckeyes as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB #31 Travon Bellamy, (6-0, 205, Jr.)
FS #9 Trulon Henry, (6-2, 225, Jr.)
SS #3 Tavon Wilson, (6-0, 205, Jr.)
CB #26 Justin Green (5-11, 195 Soph.)
Bellamy was a starter at free safety in 2008, before becoming a spot starter at corner/nickel back last year. He's got good size and decent speed, but has not yet become a "lockdown" guy. While versatile and able to get in to the backfield quick, the Illini would benefit from Bellamy becoming more of a playmaker when the ball is in the air. While he has not recorded an interception since moving away from the safety role, he is currently tied for second on the team with 24 tackles, 4 for loss with a sack. Green mans the other corner after coming to Illinois as a running back. A former Ohio State verbal commit, the Buckeyes should already know what sort of potential Green has as a corner since the position is where the staff had him projected to play. Despite not playing on the defensive side of the ball last season, Green has already earned himself a starting role and should develop into a good one. He has 19 stops thus far and a team leading 4 pass break ups. Henry is a JUCO transfer and brother of departed wide receiver Arrelious Benn. He has good range and can deliver punishing hits with just about anyone. He, like Green, has 19 stops to go along with 1 TFL and 1 pass break up in his first season in Champaign. Rounding out the starting secondary is Wilson, who moves back to his more natural position as a safety after replacing Vontae Davis on the corner last year. In his role last season he was 3rd on the team in tackles and broke up seven passes with a pick. This season Wilson has 11 tackles, half for a loss to go along with 2 fumble recoveries and 4 pass breakups.
Corners: #27 Antonio Gully, (6-1, 190, Sr.), and #8 Pat Nixon-Youiman, (5-10, 175, Soph.) and safeties: #5 Steve Hull, (6-2, 195, RFr.), and #15 Walt Aikens, (6-1, 185, Soph.) provide the depth. The depth chart has taken a few blows owing to the loss of Terry Hawthorne and Supo Sanni, both of whom were projected starters before the season began. Hawthorne has a stress fracture in his foot and will return eventually, Sanni is out for the year with a ruptured Achilles tendon. Like Green, Hull has moved over from offense as well (wide receiver) demonstrating that depth is an issue for the Illini. Hull has made 9 stops this season. Gully has seen action in each contest and has recorded two tackles, while Nixon-Youman has 4 stops and a forced fumble. Aikens has recorded no statistics as yet.
DB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DBs
The Illinois secondary would merit a higher grade if Hawthorne and Sanni were available, but even then, there would be some question as to whether the secondary would ever live up to its level of experience. That is to say, the Illini have been carved up after the loss of Davis and has had trouble gaining interceptions or changing games. The early returns demonstrate that not a lot has changed in the turnover department. While Ohio State has done well in the INT category, it must be noted that only Chimdi Chekwa's 2 picks against Miami Florida have come from the secondary (three, if you include Tyler Moeller's pick made from the Star position). Both secondaries benefit from able D-Lines and both secondaries are suffering from the injury bug. The Buckeyes have not had to resort to players changing positions from the other side of the ball, suggesting better depth and overall defensive back talent. Still, after Eastern Michigan moved the ball through the air with some success, the Buckeyes hope to get healthy pretty quick as Big Ten play begins.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Illini have the talent and potential to be a very good defense, but have consistently failed to live up to such a standard in the recent past. If the Illini play "out of their minds" they can make it a long day for the Buckeyes, as they did in their 2007 upset of then #1 Ohio State. Ohio State has struggled to establish the run in the last couple of games and Illinois is no doubt intent on keeping that trend going. Ohio State was able to overpower and outman Ohio and Eastern Michigan, but will be less able to do so against the Illini. While the Buckeyes are statistically superior against the run, Illinois is certainly better than Ohio and EMU. The Buckeye O-Line will be tested this week - though the Buckeyes were up to the task in 2009. Terrelle Pryor has established himself as a much better passer than what the Illini saw from him in 2009 (8-13, 82 yards) and considering the Illini's relative lack of production in the secondary and Pryor's ability to scramble from pressure, the passing game may be featured this week. If Pryor is hitting passes consistently, the running game may find more room to roam. Look for Illinois to take a few chances early in an effort to send a message that they're ready to play. If those chances result in big plays against them, Ohio State rolls. If Illini is able to consistently make the play, however, they have the ability to make it a long day for Ohio State. The Buckeyes have come to play in each of its previous four games, and there's no reason to anticipate they will take Illinois lightly, however.
Overall Defensive Rating: B-
2010 Illinois Fighting Illini Special Teams Preview
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DL
The Illinois line has more potential than the B- rating indicates, but they do need to establish consistent production before earning a higher score. Had DT Josh Brent not flunked out of school this unit would be better for sure. Like Ohio State, Illinois has big guys who also bring great quickness to their positions. However, it is the Buckeyes' front four which has been more productive thus far in 2010. Dex Larimore leads the way so far with 11 tackles followed closely by sophomore Johnny Simon's 10. It is interesting that both line's most established presence, Nurse for Illinois and Heyward for the Buckeyes, have been the least productive in terms of bringing ball carriers down with respect to their own units. Heyward, however, has been more productive than Nurse, gaining a fumble recovery, an 80 yard INT return to go along with his seven tackles. The Illini have decent depth, but Ohio State's depth gets a bit of an edge here as well. All in all, the Illini have the talent and potential to perform at a high level, but they need to develop consistent production before they can be considered a more elite group.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
SLB #18 Nate Bussey, (6-2, 220, Sr.)
MLB #2 Martez Wilson, (6-4, 250, Jr.)
WLB #38 Ian Thomas, (6-0, 240, Jr.)
Wilson came to Illinois with a great deal of raw talent. After two seasons of solid production, Wilson began 2009 with 9 tackles in the opener with Missouri, before suffering a neck injury which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Now back healthy, he will be looking to re-establish himself as an NFL caliber linebacker. He's certainly got the size and speed and thus far, has shown every indication of getting it done. He has a team leading 25 tackles, 3 for loss with a sack and a forced fumble. Thomas was the man who stepped in for Wilson last season and earned himself a starting job even with Wilson's return. After recording a team leading 95 stops last year in relief, the speedy and sizable junior provides the Illini with a solid one two puch in 2010. He has one less tackle than Wilson thus far (24), with 4 TFLs one sack and a fumble recovery. Rounding out the starting LB corps is senior Nate Bussey. Bussey was a quarterback in High School and has played safety for the Illini before moving to the LB corps. Bussey has the speed to be a disruptive force out there and will certainly benefit from the inclusion of Wilson and Thomas as running mates. He has 19 stops this season with 2.5 coming for loss.
Backing up the starting corps are #25 Ashante Williams, (5-10, 205, Soph.), #51 Evan Frierson, (6-2, 230, Soph.), and #33 Russell Ellington, (6-2, 235, Jr.). Of the backups, only Williams has recorded any statistics thus far, with 10 stops. Built like a safety, Williams is a tough guy who likes to bring the wood. Frierson started 5 games last season, but has yet to establish himself as a playmaker. While he has not recorded any stats this season, he should see the field on Saturday. Ellington also saw 5 starts a year ago and brings great speed and good size to the unit.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU LBs
When Wilson is healthy, the Illinois LB corps is a very good unit. The starting corps and reserves have a lot of game experience and very good size and athleticism. Likewise, talent is not an issue for the group, though there is some room for living up to that potential as the corps has struggled in creating big plays. Of all LBs, it is Ross Homan who has the most stops, with 26, to go along with a pick, while MLB Brian Rolle has 15 tackles and a pick of his own (touchdown). While Bussey has 14 more stops than does Ohio State's Andrew Sweat, it must be noted that Sweat is often rotated out of the game in favor or the Star position - Tyler Moeller. This is no knock on Sweat, but is testimony of just how good Moeller has been as well as the sort of offensive attacks the Buckeyes have faced thus far in 2010. The Buckeyes' second group has been more productive than have the Illini backups, though Illinois' second team enjoys an experience edge. Both teams enjoy a high level of talent, but it is Ohio State's talent that runs deeper. The Buckeyes get the edge here, but the difference isn't much and Illinois has the talent and potential to out play the Buckeyes as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB #31 Travon Bellamy, (6-0, 205, Jr.)
FS #9 Trulon Henry, (6-2, 225, Jr.)
SS #3 Tavon Wilson, (6-0, 205, Jr.)
CB #26 Justin Green (5-11, 195 Soph.)
Bellamy was a starter at free safety in 2008, before becoming a spot starter at corner/nickel back last year. He's got good size and decent speed, but has not yet become a "lockdown" guy. While versatile and able to get in to the backfield quick, the Illini would benefit from Bellamy becoming more of a playmaker when the ball is in the air. While he has not recorded an interception since moving away from the safety role, he is currently tied for second on the team with 24 tackles, 4 for loss with a sack. Green mans the other corner after coming to Illinois as a running back. A former Ohio State verbal commit, the Buckeyes should already know what sort of potential Green has as a corner since the position is where the staff had him projected to play. Despite not playing on the defensive side of the ball last season, Green has already earned himself a starting role and should develop into a good one. He has 19 stops thus far and a team leading 4 pass break ups. Henry is a JUCO transfer and brother of departed wide receiver Arrelious Benn. He has good range and can deliver punishing hits with just about anyone. He, like Green, has 19 stops to go along with 1 TFL and 1 pass break up in his first season in Champaign. Rounding out the starting secondary is Wilson, who moves back to his more natural position as a safety after replacing Vontae Davis on the corner last year. In his role last season he was 3rd on the team in tackles and broke up seven passes with a pick. This season Wilson has 11 tackles, half for a loss to go along with 2 fumble recoveries and 4 pass breakups.
Corners: #27 Antonio Gully, (6-1, 190, Sr.), and #8 Pat Nixon-Youiman, (5-10, 175, Soph.) and safeties: #5 Steve Hull, (6-2, 195, RFr.), and #15 Walt Aikens, (6-1, 185, Soph.) provide the depth. The depth chart has taken a few blows owing to the loss of Terry Hawthorne and Supo Sanni, both of whom were projected starters before the season began. Hawthorne has a stress fracture in his foot and will return eventually, Sanni is out for the year with a ruptured Achilles tendon. Like Green, Hull has moved over from offense as well (wide receiver) demonstrating that depth is an issue for the Illini. Hull has made 9 stops this season. Gully has seen action in each contest and has recorded two tackles, while Nixon-Youman has 4 stops and a forced fumble. Aikens has recorded no statistics as yet.
DB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DBs
The Illinois secondary would merit a higher grade if Hawthorne and Sanni were available, but even then, there would be some question as to whether the secondary would ever live up to its level of experience. That is to say, the Illini have been carved up after the loss of Davis and has had trouble gaining interceptions or changing games. The early returns demonstrate that not a lot has changed in the turnover department. While Ohio State has done well in the INT category, it must be noted that only Chimdi Chekwa's 2 picks against Miami Florida have come from the secondary (three, if you include Tyler Moeller's pick made from the Star position). Both secondaries benefit from able D-Lines and both secondaries are suffering from the injury bug. The Buckeyes have not had to resort to players changing positions from the other side of the ball, suggesting better depth and overall defensive back talent. Still, after Eastern Michigan moved the ball through the air with some success, the Buckeyes hope to get healthy pretty quick as Big Ten play begins.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Illini have the talent and potential to be a very good defense, but have consistently failed to live up to such a standard in the recent past. If the Illini play "out of their minds" they can make it a long day for the Buckeyes, as they did in their 2007 upset of then #1 Ohio State. Ohio State has struggled to establish the run in the last couple of games and Illinois is no doubt intent on keeping that trend going. Ohio State was able to overpower and outman Ohio and Eastern Michigan, but will be less able to do so against the Illini. While the Buckeyes are statistically superior against the run, Illinois is certainly better than Ohio and EMU. The Buckeye O-Line will be tested this week - though the Buckeyes were up to the task in 2009. Terrelle Pryor has established himself as a much better passer than what the Illini saw from him in 2009 (8-13, 82 yards) and considering the Illini's relative lack of production in the secondary and Pryor's ability to scramble from pressure, the passing game may be featured this week. If Pryor is hitting passes consistently, the running game may find more room to roam. Look for Illinois to take a few chances early in an effort to send a message that they're ready to play. If those chances result in big plays against them, Ohio State rolls. If Illini is able to consistently make the play, however, they have the ability to make it a long day for Ohio State. The Buckeyes have come to play in each of its previous four games, and there's no reason to anticipate they will take Illinois lightly, however.
Overall Defensive Rating: B-
2010 Illinois Fighting Illini Special Teams Preview
The solid play of the Special Teams against Eastern Michigan was like a breath of fresh air. But playing Eastern Michigan will get a team healthy and better in a hurry so Ohio State needs to build on this success. This is not coming a moment too soon as Ohio State enters the Big Ten portion of their schedule Saturday against Illinois.
Special Teams
Illinois
P #87 Anthony Santella (6-2, 190, Sr., Wauconda HS, Wauconda IL)
PK #13 Derek Dimke (6-0, 180, Jr., Boylan HS, Rockford, IL)
PR #19 Jack Ramsey (5-11, 190, So., Simeon HS, Chicago, IL)
KR #15 Darius Millines (5-11, 180, Fr., American Heritage HS, Boynton Beach. FL)
LS #46 Zak Pedersen (6-2, 220, Fr., Catholic HS, Joliet, IL)
Hldr #87 Anthony Santella (6-2, 190, Sr., Wauconda HS, Wauconda IL)
Illinois brings some solid Special Teams into their home game vs. the Buckeyes. Senior punter Anthony Santella is averaging almost 49 yards per punt to rank 3rd overall in the Nation. Dimke has hit on all 4 of his FG attempts and all 8 of his PATs. The return teams are not as special. The punt return team is averaging only 3.29 per return which is only good for 111th in the nation, while the kickoff return team has fielded 11 kicks for 212 yards (19.27 avg) good for only 93rd in the nation. The return defense teams are among the leaders in their respective categories. The punt return defense has been very good having allowed only 6 returns in three games for 24 yards and no scores. The kickoff return defense is good as well as they rank 22nd in the nation by giving up only 18.5 yards per return.
ST Rating: B
Ohio State
P #17 Ben Buchanan (6-0, 195, Fr., Westerville Central HS, Westerville, OH)
PK #24 Devin Barclay (5-10, 204, Sr., McDonough HS, Annapolis, MD)
KO #24 Drew Basil (6-1, 206, Fr., Chillicothe HS, Chillicothe, OH)
PR #8 DeVier Posey (6-2, 200, Jr., LaSalle HS, Cincinnati, OH)
PR #10 Corey Brown (5-10, 170, Fr., Cardinal O'Hara HS, Upper Darby, PA)
PR #7 Jordan Hall (5-9, 195, So., Jeanette HS, Jeanette, PA)
KR #7 Jordan Hall (5-9, 195, So., Jeanette HS, Jeanette, PA)
KR #1 Dan Herron (5-10, 202, Jr., Harding HS, Warren, OH)
KR #3 Brandon Saine (6-1, 219, Sr., Piqua HS, Piqua, OH)
KR #4 Jaamal Berry (5-10, 200, Fr., Palmetto HS, Pinecrest, FL)
LS #96 Jake McQuaide (6-3, 234, Sr., Elder HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Hldr #14 Joe Bauserman (6-1, 233, Jr., Lincoln HS, Stasburg, VA)
The Buckeye Special Teams played better last week against Eastern Michigan than the first three games, but that's not saying much as the first 3 games were putrid. There remains a great deal of room for improvement. Take the punt team for instance. They rank last in the NCAA rankings in net yards per punt. That's 120th of 120. Think about that for a second - the team coached by a man who is on record as stating the punt is the most important play in the game ranks below Buffalo, Troy, UTEP and New Mexico State (NEW MEXICO STATE!!!). It must be driving Coach Tressel nuts. It certainly isn't getting the job done and is making it much more difficult on the defense than it needs to be. This stat is saying the punts are short and are being returned. This must be tightened up before the tougher games in Oct/Nov. The Buckeye's own punt return team is not equalizing it out as they are only averaging 7.15 yards per return to only rank 85th in the Nation. The kickoff return team continues to be a bright light in a great darkness as they average over 27 yards per return and rank 13th in the nation. The punt return defense is 118th out of 120 and are still trying to crawl out of the hole dug by that long return by Miami. The kickoff return defense is allowing 22.61 yards per return, good for 82nd in the nation. Lots of work remains to make these teams a contributing member of a national championship run.
ST Rating: D+
Edge: Illinois
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Will any of this matter? The Buckeyes have had their way with all of their first 4 opponents. The Special Teams' breakdowns did not impact the final scores - except to make the Miami game seem closer than it was. Marshall, Ohio and Eastern Michigan all were clearly outclassed in all other aspects of the game to make Special Teams' play less important. But as Ohio State heads into Big Ten play, that gap will narrow and Special Teams play will have a bigger impact on the outcome. Hopefully, the Buckeyes will build on the success against Eastern Michigan and will continue improving their Special Teams' play heading into the meat of the schedule.
PredictionsSpecial Teams
Illinois
P #87 Anthony Santella (6-2, 190, Sr., Wauconda HS, Wauconda IL)
PK #13 Derek Dimke (6-0, 180, Jr., Boylan HS, Rockford, IL)
PR #19 Jack Ramsey (5-11, 190, So., Simeon HS, Chicago, IL)
KR #15 Darius Millines (5-11, 180, Fr., American Heritage HS, Boynton Beach. FL)
LS #46 Zak Pedersen (6-2, 220, Fr., Catholic HS, Joliet, IL)
Hldr #87 Anthony Santella (6-2, 190, Sr., Wauconda HS, Wauconda IL)
Illinois brings some solid Special Teams into their home game vs. the Buckeyes. Senior punter Anthony Santella is averaging almost 49 yards per punt to rank 3rd overall in the Nation. Dimke has hit on all 4 of his FG attempts and all 8 of his PATs. The return teams are not as special. The punt return team is averaging only 3.29 per return which is only good for 111th in the nation, while the kickoff return team has fielded 11 kicks for 212 yards (19.27 avg) good for only 93rd in the nation. The return defense teams are among the leaders in their respective categories. The punt return defense has been very good having allowed only 6 returns in three games for 24 yards and no scores. The kickoff return defense is good as well as they rank 22nd in the nation by giving up only 18.5 yards per return.
ST Rating: B
Ohio State
P #17 Ben Buchanan (6-0, 195, Fr., Westerville Central HS, Westerville, OH)
PK #24 Devin Barclay (5-10, 204, Sr., McDonough HS, Annapolis, MD)
KO #24 Drew Basil (6-1, 206, Fr., Chillicothe HS, Chillicothe, OH)
PR #8 DeVier Posey (6-2, 200, Jr., LaSalle HS, Cincinnati, OH)
PR #10 Corey Brown (5-10, 170, Fr., Cardinal O'Hara HS, Upper Darby, PA)
PR #7 Jordan Hall (5-9, 195, So., Jeanette HS, Jeanette, PA)
KR #7 Jordan Hall (5-9, 195, So., Jeanette HS, Jeanette, PA)
KR #1 Dan Herron (5-10, 202, Jr., Harding HS, Warren, OH)
KR #3 Brandon Saine (6-1, 219, Sr., Piqua HS, Piqua, OH)
KR #4 Jaamal Berry (5-10, 200, Fr., Palmetto HS, Pinecrest, FL)
LS #96 Jake McQuaide (6-3, 234, Sr., Elder HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Hldr #14 Joe Bauserman (6-1, 233, Jr., Lincoln HS, Stasburg, VA)
The Buckeye Special Teams played better last week against Eastern Michigan than the first three games, but that's not saying much as the first 3 games were putrid. There remains a great deal of room for improvement. Take the punt team for instance. They rank last in the NCAA rankings in net yards per punt. That's 120th of 120. Think about that for a second - the team coached by a man who is on record as stating the punt is the most important play in the game ranks below Buffalo, Troy, UTEP and New Mexico State (NEW MEXICO STATE!!!). It must be driving Coach Tressel nuts. It certainly isn't getting the job done and is making it much more difficult on the defense than it needs to be. This stat is saying the punts are short and are being returned. This must be tightened up before the tougher games in Oct/Nov. The Buckeye's own punt return team is not equalizing it out as they are only averaging 7.15 yards per return to only rank 85th in the Nation. The kickoff return team continues to be a bright light in a great darkness as they average over 27 yards per return and rank 13th in the nation. The punt return defense is 118th out of 120 and are still trying to crawl out of the hole dug by that long return by Miami. The kickoff return defense is allowing 22.61 yards per return, good for 82nd in the nation. Lots of work remains to make these teams a contributing member of a national championship run.
ST Rating: D+
Edge: Illinois
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Will any of this matter? The Buckeyes have had their way with all of their first 4 opponents. The Special Teams' breakdowns did not impact the final scores - except to make the Miami game seem closer than it was. Marshall, Ohio and Eastern Michigan all were clearly outclassed in all other aspects of the game to make Special Teams' play less important. But as Ohio State heads into Big Ten play, that gap will narrow and Special Teams play will have a bigger impact on the outcome. Hopefully, the Buckeyes will build on the success against Eastern Michigan and will continue improving their Special Teams' play heading into the meat of the schedule.
BB73's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 42-3, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 33-10, Ohio State
Bucky Katt's prediction: 38-17, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 45-10, Ohio State
JCOSU86's Prediction: 42-17, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 42-7, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (tOSU 73 - Eastern Michigan 20)
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.)
(63) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 59-0, Ohio State (29 + 34 last week = 63)
(77) jwinslow's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (35 + 42 last week = 77)
(78) Bucklion's prediction: 48-7, Ohio State (40 + 38 last week = 78)
(79) Bucky Katt's prediction: 51-3, Ohio State (40 + 39 last week = 79)
(82) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 56-0, Ohio State (45 + 37 last week = 82)
(86) JCOSU86's prediction: 56-0, Ohio State (49 + 37 last week= 86)
(91) BB73's prediction: 48-3 Ohio State (49 + 42 last week = 91)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 42-3, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 33-10, Ohio State
Bucky Katt's prediction: 38-17, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 45-10, Ohio State
JCOSU86's Prediction: 42-17, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 42-7, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (tOSU 73 - Eastern Michigan 20)
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.)
(63) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 59-0, Ohio State (29 + 34 last week = 63)
(77) jwinslow's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (35 + 42 last week = 77)
(78) Bucklion's prediction: 48-7, Ohio State (40 + 38 last week = 78)
(79) Bucky Katt's prediction: 51-3, Ohio State (40 + 39 last week = 79)
(82) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 56-0, Ohio State (45 + 37 last week = 82)
(86) JCOSU86's prediction: 56-0, Ohio State (49 + 37 last week= 86)
(91) BB73's prediction: 48-3 Ohio State (49 + 42 last week = 91)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
