The Iowa Hawkeyes (8-2) are set to host the Illinois Fighting Illini (5-5) in a Big Ten showdown. With Iowa eyeing a spot in the conference championship and Illinois seeking bowl eligibility, this matchup is critical for both teams’ aspirations.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa Hawkeyes Odds Info
Moneyline: Illinois Fighting Illini +130 (Bet365) / Iowa Hawkeyes -150 (Bet365)
Spread: -3.0 / Illinois Fighting Illini -110 (BetMGM) / Iowa Hawkeyes -110 (BetMGM)
Total: 32.0 / -112 (DraftKings) / -108 (DraftKings)
Game Info
Date: Saturday, Nov. 18
Time: 03:30 PM
Location: Kinnick Stadium – Iowa City, IA
TV: Fox Sports 1
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
- On the road, Illinois Fighting Illini are 2 and 2 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Illinois Fighting Illini are 2 and 8.
- Against the spread on the road, Illinois Fighting Illini are 2 and 2.
Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Trends
- At home, Iowa Hawkeyes are 5 and 1 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Iowa Hawkeyes are 5 and 3.
- Against the spread at home, Iowa Hawkeyes are 3 and 2.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa Hawkeyes Predictions
The Iowa Hawkeyes, boasting a strong 8-2 record and coming off a two-game winning streak, are preparing to defend their home turf against the Illinois Fighting Illini, who are sitting at an even 5-5 for the season. Iowa’s defense has been a fortress this season, ranking third nationally and allowing a mere 12.3 points per game. However, they will be without star cornerback Cooper DeJean, who is out for the season with a leg injury. Illinois, on the other hand, has shown offensive prowess in recent games, with backup QB John Paddock stepping up to throw for a record 507 yards in their last outing.
Illinois’ offense, which has been a mixed bag this season, will face its toughest test against an Iowa defense that has been consistently stifling opponents. The Illini’s QB situation could be a deciding factor, as starter Luke Altmyer is set to return, but Paddock’s recent performance may leave the coaching staff with a difficult decision. Iowa’s offense, not typically known for high-scoring affairs, will need to capitalize on any opportunities provided by Illinois’ defense, which has been vulnerable at times, allowing an average of 29.3 points against per game.
The game will likely hinge on the battle in the trenches, with Illinois’ defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton, a Nagurski Trophy finalist, looking to disrupt Iowa’s offensive plans. Special teams could also play a crucial role, as Iowa has excelled in punt returns. With both teams on a two-game winning streak and much at stake, this Big Ten matchup promises to be a tightly contested battle with significant postseason implications.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa Hawkeyes Pick
The Iowa Hawkeyes have demonstrated a level of defensive prowess that is hard to ignore, especially when playing at home where they have a 5-1 record this season. Their ability to suppress scoring, allowing only 12.3 points per game, gives them a significant edge, particularly against an Illinois team that has been inconsistent on offense. While Illinois has shown some offensive spark recently, Iowa’s defense is likely to stifle the Illini’s efforts. Additionally, Iowa’s against the spread (ATS) record this season is a solid 5-3, indicating a trend of outperforming expectations. The absence of Cooper DeJean is a concern, but the Hawkeyes’ defense has depth and should maintain their stingy play.
Historically, Iowa has been dominant at home against unranked opponents, and while Illinois has managed to cover the spread in their last two road games, they face a much tougher defense in Iowa. The Hawkeyes’ ATS record at home (3-2) further supports the notion that they are capable of covering the spread in this matchup. Given the low total line of 32.0, this game is expected to be a defensive battle, and Iowa’s defense is likely to be the difference-maker. With both teams on winning streaks, the pressure is on, but Iowa’s home advantage and defensive strength make them the right pick to cover the spread.
The Pick: Iowa Hawkeyes -3 (BetMGM)