Home / Sports / Illini Escape Trojans, Boilermakers Await in Crucial Big Ten Clash
Illini Escape Trojans, Boilermakers Await in Crucial Big Ten Clash
3 Oct
Summary
- No. 22 Illinois narrowly defeated USC 34-32 on Sept. 27
- Purdue lost 56-30 to No. 21 Notre Dame on Sept. 20, enters on a bye
- Both teams have mediocre rushing attacks, focus on passing game
The No. 22 Illinois Fighting Illini are set to visit the Purdue Boilermakers this Saturday, October 7th, in a crucial Big Ten matchup. Just last month, the Illini narrowly defeated the No. 22 USC Trojans 34-32, covering as 6.5-point underdogs. Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer had a standout performance, completing 20 of 26 passes for 328 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Meanwhile, Purdue is looking to bounce back after a 56-30 loss to No. 21 Notre Dame on September 20th. The Boilermakers failed to cover as 24-point underdogs in that game and have now lost back-to-back contests. Purdue will be entering this matchup coming off a bye week, hoping to utilize their strong passing attack to upset the Illini.
Both teams have struggled defensively this season, ranking in the bottom half of the Big Ten in several key defensive categories. With mediocre rushing attacks, the passing game is expected to be the focal point for both squads. This sets the stage for a high-scoring affair as the Illini and Boilermakers clash in West Lafayette.
