College Football Game Of The Week: #9 Illinois vs. #19 Indiana
We got a big rivalry game this week between #9 Illinois and #19 Illinois, who are both undefeated. This is also the first time since 1950 that both teams are meeting each other as ranked teams.
Here’s everything you need to know about #9 Illinois vs. #19 Indiana in the college football game of the week. Check out everything below before you place and use this social casino application.
#9 Illinois vs. #19 Indiana Betting Lines
The oddsmakers for this highly-anticipated game have the spread between 4-6 points in favor of Indiana and 52-points scored.
#9 Illinois
- Spread: +6.5(-115)
- Point Total: Under 52.5(-110)
- Money Line: +200
#19 Indiana
- Spread: -6.5(-110)
- Points Total: Over 52.5(-110)
- Money Line: -240
#9 Illinois Keys to Victory
Under fourth-year coach Brett Bielema, Illinois has rediscovered their swagger after putting together a 10-win season last year. That season ended a 23-year drought of no 10-win seasons and Bielema is looking to build off that season.
In their last 3 games, Illinois has steamrolled their opponents by a margin of 128-22. They’re running a smash mouth offense and currently have a top-10 defense that is only giving up 7-points per game.
However, they’re playing a tough Indiana team, who went to the playoffs last year and has also looked great. They’re big key to this game is shutting down Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza.
Mendoza has been putting up big numbers, but he hasn’t yet faced a tough defense like Illinois. If Illinois can keep Mendoza in check and not get rattled by the Indiana fans, they’ll make a statement win.
#19 Indiana Keys to Victory
Indiana is coming off of their miracle season, where they hit 11 wins and their first playoff birth. Coming into his second season, coach Curt Cignetti has the Hoosier nation buzzing.
They have the #2 ranked defense in the nation and a high-powered offense that is putting up big numbers. This includes Fernando Mendoza with 284.4 passing yards per game and RB Justice Ellison averaging over 100-yards per game.
Unfortunately, their #1 receiver Tyler Morris will be out of this game, but they will have home field advantage. Indiana will look to continue their hot streak and get a boost from their fans at home.
Who’s Going to Win?
Illinois is playing very well, however history and numbers are on Indiana’s side. The Hoosiers have dominated the rivalry with a total record of 46-27-1.
This is also Illinois’ first real test and will prove if they’re a legit contender in the Big Ten. Indiana has already proven themselves, which is why we’re leaning towards Indiana on the spread.
We’re going to take the -6.5 spread in favor of Indiana, but we’re also taking the Under 52 points on Illinois. Expect a tight game that’s going to be decided by which defense can create turnovers.
Whoever wins this game will have a clearer path to another 10-win season.
Indiana -6.5(-110)
Illinois Point Total: Under 52.5(-110)
