College Football Week 9 Preview: #1 Oregon vs. #20 Illinois
The Matchup: This Saturday, October 26th, the #1 ranked Oregon Ducks (7-0) will host the #20 Illinois Fighting Illini (6-1) in a clash of top 25 teams. Kickoff is set for 3:30 PM EST at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.
The Line: Oregon enters the game as a heavy favorite, laying 21.5 points to Illinois. The over/under for total points scored is set at 54.5. (Betonline)
The Storylines:
- High-Flying Ducks: Oregon has soared to the top of the college football world with an undefeated record and a potent offense led by Heisman hopeful Dillon Gabriel. Their signature win came in a thrilling 32-31 victory over Ohio State earlier this season.
- Giant Killers?: Illinois has been a thorn in the side of ranked opponents, boasting a 6-1 record with their only loss coming on the road against #3 Penn State. They’re coming off an impressive 21-7 upset victory over Michigan, proving they can compete with the nation’s best.
- Strength vs. Strength: This game features a fascinating matchup between Oregon’s explosive offense and Illinois’ stingy defense. The Illini have covered the spread in each of their last six games as an underdog, showcasing their ability to keep games close.
- Home Field Advantage?: While Oregon enjoys the home crowd, they’ve struggled to cover the spread in their last three games as home favorites. This trend could be a cause for concern against a resilient Illinois team.
- Quarterback Duel: The game features two talented quarterbacks in Dillon Gabriel (Oregon) and Luke Altmeyer (Illinois). Gabriel has been lighting up scoreboards, while Altmeyer boasts an impressive 15-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Key Players to Watch:
- Oregon:
- Dillon Gabriel (QB): The Oklahoma transfer has been exceptional, leading a high-powered Oregon attack.
- Jordan James (RB): Leads the Ducks in rushing with 717 yards and 8 touchdowns.
- Illinois:
- Luke Altmeyer (QB): Efficient passer with a knack for protecting the football.
- Defense: The Illini defense has been the key to their success, limiting opponents and creating turnovers.
X-Factors:
- Turnovers: Illinois’ defense has a knack for forcing turnovers. If they can create some takeaways against Oregon, they could keep the game within reach.
- Illinois’ Run Game: Can Illinois establish a consistent running game to keep Oregon’s offense off the field and control the clock?
- Oregon’s Complacency: After a big win over Ohio State and with a matchup against rival Washington looming, will Oregon overlook Illinois?
Prediction:
While Oregon is the clear favorite, Illinois has proven they can hang with top teams. Their defense is capable of slowing down the Ducks’ attack, and Altmeyer can make enough plays to keep them in the game. Expect a closer contest than the spread suggests. Oregon will likely win, but Illinois will cover the spread.
Our Pick: Illinois +21.5 Score Prediction: Oregon 31, Illinois 14