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Kansas vs. Illinois Football Predictions – NCAAF Picks (Friday 9/8)

Kansas Jayhawks running back Devin Neal (4) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles during the first half at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.
Image Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas is set to face Illinois on Friday, September 8. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 pm ET while airing on ESPN2. Kansas enters this game as a 2-point favorite with the total set at 54.5. How will this one play out? Let’s dive into the Kansas vs. Illinois football predictions below.

Kansas vs. Illinois Odds

  • Spread: Kansas -2
  • Total: 54.5

Game Info

  • Date: Friday, September 8
  • Time: 7:30 pm ET
  • Location: David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, Lawrence, KS
  • TV: ESPN2

Kansas Betting Trends

  • Kansas are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games.
  • The total has gone OVER in 5 of Kansas’ last 5 games.

Illinois Betting Trends

  • Illinois are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games.
  • Illinois are 10-5 SU in their last 15 games.

Kansas Cruised To 48-17 Win Last Week

The Kansas Jayhawks started their season on a high note, cruising to a 48-17 victory over Missouri State. Despite the absence of their starting quarterback Jalon Daniels due to a back injury (he’s set to return vs. Illinois), the Jayhawks’ offense was firing on all cylinders.

Backup quarterback Jason Bean stepped up to the plate and delivered an outstanding performance, completing 22 of 28 passes for 276 yards and two touchdowns. This impressive display of offensive prowess was a key factor in the Jayhawks’ dominant win.

However, the game wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Jayhawks. Despite the comfortable margin of victory, Kansas had to work hard for their win. Missouri State led 10-7 at one point and was still within 27-17 after scoring on the first play of the fourth quarter.

The Jayhawks, however, managed to pull away in the final quarter, outscoring the Bears 21-0 to secure the victory.

Illinois Barely Holds Off Toledo In Week 1

The Fighting Illini kicked off their season with a nail-biting 30-28 victory over Toledo. The game was a rollercoaster ride, with the Illini trailing for most of the match before staging a dramatic comeback in the closing seconds.

The hero of the day was undoubtedly quarterback Luke Altmyer. The Ole Miss transfer made his debut for Illinois a memorable one, completing 18 of 26 passes for 211 yards and two touchdowns. He also led the team in rushing, with 69 yards on nine carries.

His 33-yard pass to Casey Washington on a crucial fourth down was instrumental in setting up the game-winning field goal by Caleb Griffin.

However, the Illini’s defense left much to be desired. Despite a strong performance in the previous season, the defense struggled to contain Toledo’s offense, which racked up 27 first downs and 416 total yards.

The Illini will need to tighten up their defense if they hope to stand a chance against a potent Kansas offense in the upcoming game.

Kansas vs. Illinois Football Predictions

Last week’s near-upset raised concerns for an Illinois team that entered the season with a strong defensive reputation. However, there’s still time for the Illini to address these issues and recapture their preseason optimism.

On the other hand, Kansas boasts several offensive playmakers, but their defense has been a consistent weak point, contributing to losses in seven of their last eight games against Power 5 teams.

It’s worth noting that Missouri State remained competitive until the fourth quarter last week when Kansas finally took control.

Unlike Missouri State, Illinois possesses a formidable defense that is less likely to falter. With a strategy focused on running the ball effectively and stifling the run on defense, the Illini are well-positioned to secure a road win.

The Pick: Illinois +2 | -110 at FanDuel Sportsbook