Bielema Returns to Wisconsin: Illini Seek Third Straight Win

Illinois is set to compete for its third consecutive win as they travel to face Wisconsin in a Big Ten matchup this Saturday. The No. 21 Fighting Illini, now 7-3 overall and 4-3 in the Big Ten, are coming off a decisive 24-6 victory over Maryland, fueled by Luke Altmyer's two touchdown passes. They have secured two consecutive wins following a couple of losses that ended their playoff aspirations.

Wisconsin, holding a 3-7 record, recently lost 31-7 to No. 2 Indiana. The Badgers have managed only one win in their last eight games. Notably, Illinois coach Bret Bielema previously served as Wisconsin's head coach from 2006 to 2012, achieving a 68-24 record and securing three Big Ten titles. Despite his tenure at Arkansas since then, the connection to his former team remains a talking point.

The Illini offense is averaging 32.2 points and 386.1 total yards per game, with Luke Altmyer proving effective through the air. Conversely, Wisconsin's offense has struggled immensely, scoring just 27 points in their last five games and averaging only 12.0 points per game, which ranks last in the Big Ten. The Badgers' defense will face a considerable challenge against Illinois's potent offense.