3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2007 Illinois Fighting Illini Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, Hubbard, jwinslow, OSUBucks22, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
As we look forward to this Saturday's game in the 'Shoe, it's important to note that this will be the final home game for all of these Buckeyes, who will be recognized in a pre-game ceremony.
OT Kirk Barton (Massillon, Ohio)
DL Brett Daly (Elyria, Ohio)
OL Dan Dye (Napoleon, Ohio)
PK Andrew Good (Boardman, Ohio)
LB Larry Grant (Norcross, Ga.)
LS Jackson Haas (Piqua, Ohio)
FB Dionte Johnson (Columbus, Ohio)
WR David Lisko (Hilliard, Ohio)
LS Dimitrios Makridis (Warren, Ohio)
FB Trever Robinson (Richmond, Va.)
WR Brent Ullery (Centerville, Ohio)
FB Tyler "Tank" Whaley (Ironton, Ohio)
Also being recognized will be these Buckeyes:
WR Devin Jordan (Massillon, Ohio) injured
WR/S Curt Lukens (North Canton, Ohio) injured
DB De'Angelo Haslam (Akron, Ohio) injured
Team mamager Jon Yeagley (Ashtabula, Ohio)
Others may also be playing their last home game as a Buckeye, pending the NFL decision they'll make after the bowl game. A handful of names could be mentioned here, but they've not been listed; simply hoping that if we don't say goodbye we'll be able to enjoy watching them play one more season.
We've all seen their efforts over the past 5 years, and here are some of the accomplishments of the football team since 2003:
A 51-9 record (.850), with 3 games remaining
Being placed #1 in the BCS for 12 straight (and counting) ranking periods, breaking USC's record of 9
Being ranked #1 in the AP poll for 15 weeks in 2006 (tOSU's longest streak), and being #1 a total of 19 weeks
Being the first football team to ever play in three AP #1 vs. AP #2 games in a season
Winning the most anticipated game in the history of the 'Shoe, 42-39
Setting the Big Ten record for consecutive conference wins: 20 (and counting)
Tying the Big Ten record for consecutive regular season wins: 28 (would set this record with a win over Illinois)
There have been some memorable battles with the Fighting Illini. One of them occurred in 1980, when Dave Wilson was unstoppable in the second half, and threw for a record 621 yards in a 49-42 Buckeye victory. That is still the most yards ever thrown by a Big Ten QB. Illinois got 659 yards of total offense that day, which is the most ever by a Buckeye opponent.
Another classic was the 1984 comeback, when a 24-0 deficit was wiped out when Keith Byars ran out of his shoe in the 'Shoe, with that TD making it 24-14, and another TD after Earle's successful decision to go with an onside kick got the Buckeyes within 24-21 at the half. The eventual 45-38 victory was pretty much a foregone conclusion at that point.
Other great memories against the Illini have to include the tOSU record 314 rushing yards that Eddie George racked up in his 1995 Heisman campaign; and the 2002 overtime nail-biter, with incompletions in both sides of the end zone, was just another close call for our most recent National Champions.
The Illini had five straight wins from '88 to '92, and have won 2 of the last 3 contests in Columbus, with victories in 1999 and 2001. 2001 was also a Big-10 championship year for Illinois, who lost to LSU in the Sugar Bowl in the first year that the Rose Bowl had the BCS NC game.
A tradition of 89 straight years with a tOSU-Illinois game was broken after the 2002 season. That started in 1914, which was the year that World War I began. To put 89 years into sports terms, that's longer than the Red Sox and the White Sox waited to win the World Series, but not as long as the Cubs.
1914 was also the first of 4 recognized NC's for Illinois. They won four of those between that year and 1927, all under Coach Robert Zuppke, who was there for 29 years, retiring just before Pearl Harbor.
Now they have another Coach 'Z', Ron Zook, who is improving the overall talent level on the team.
OT Kirk Barton (Massillon, Ohio)
DL Brett Daly (Elyria, Ohio)
OL Dan Dye (Napoleon, Ohio)
PK Andrew Good (Boardman, Ohio)
LB Larry Grant (Norcross, Ga.)
LS Jackson Haas (Piqua, Ohio)
FB Dionte Johnson (Columbus, Ohio)
WR David Lisko (Hilliard, Ohio)
LS Dimitrios Makridis (Warren, Ohio)
FB Trever Robinson (Richmond, Va.)
WR Brent Ullery (Centerville, Ohio)
FB Tyler "Tank" Whaley (Ironton, Ohio)
Also being recognized will be these Buckeyes:
WR Devin Jordan (Massillon, Ohio) injured
WR/S Curt Lukens (North Canton, Ohio) injured
DB De'Angelo Haslam (Akron, Ohio) injured
Team mamager Jon Yeagley (Ashtabula, Ohio)
Others may also be playing their last home game as a Buckeye, pending the NFL decision they'll make after the bowl game. A handful of names could be mentioned here, but they've not been listed; simply hoping that if we don't say goodbye we'll be able to enjoy watching them play one more season.
We've all seen their efforts over the past 5 years, and here are some of the accomplishments of the football team since 2003:
A 51-9 record (.850), with 3 games remaining
Being placed #1 in the BCS for 12 straight (and counting) ranking periods, breaking USC's record of 9
Being ranked #1 in the AP poll for 15 weeks in 2006 (tOSU's longest streak), and being #1 a total of 19 weeks
Being the first football team to ever play in three AP #1 vs. AP #2 games in a season
Winning the most anticipated game in the history of the 'Shoe, 42-39
Setting the Big Ten record for consecutive conference wins: 20 (and counting)
Tying the Big Ten record for consecutive regular season wins: 28 (would set this record with a win over Illinois)
There have been some memorable battles with the Fighting Illini. One of them occurred in 1980, when Dave Wilson was unstoppable in the second half, and threw for a record 621 yards in a 49-42 Buckeye victory. That is still the most yards ever thrown by a Big Ten QB. Illinois got 659 yards of total offense that day, which is the most ever by a Buckeye opponent.
Another classic was the 1984 comeback, when a 24-0 deficit was wiped out when Keith Byars ran out of his shoe in the 'Shoe, with that TD making it 24-14, and another TD after Earle's successful decision to go with an onside kick got the Buckeyes within 24-21 at the half. The eventual 45-38 victory was pretty much a foregone conclusion at that point.
Other great memories against the Illini have to include the tOSU record 314 rushing yards that Eddie George racked up in his 1995 Heisman campaign; and the 2002 overtime nail-biter, with incompletions in both sides of the end zone, was just another close call for our most recent National Champions.
The Illini had five straight wins from '88 to '92, and have won 2 of the last 3 contests in Columbus, with victories in 1999 and 2001. 2001 was also a Big-10 championship year for Illinois, who lost to LSU in the Sugar Bowl in the first year that the Rose Bowl had the BCS NC game.
A tradition of 89 straight years with a tOSU-Illinois game was broken after the 2002 season. That started in 1914, which was the year that World War I began. To put 89 years into sports terms, that's longer than the Red Sox and the White Sox waited to win the World Series, but not as long as the Cubs.
1914 was also the first of 4 recognized NC's for Illinois. They won four of those between that year and 1927, all under Coach Robert Zuppke, who was there for 29 years, retiring just before Pearl Harbor.
Now they have another Coach 'Z', Ron Zook, who is improving the overall talent level on the team.
Date and Time
Date: Saturday, November 10th, 2007
Time: 3:30 EDT Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 101,568 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: Senior Day & battle for the Illibuck Trophy
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC / ESPN: Brad Nessler (Play-by-play), Bob Griese and Paul Maguire (Analysis), and Bonnie Bernstein (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Sirius Satallite Radio: Channel 126
Time: 3:30 EDT Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 101,568 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: Senior Day & battle for the Illibuck Trophy
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC / ESPN: Brad Nessler (Play-by-play), Bob Griese and Paul Maguire (Analysis), and Bonnie Bernstein (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Sirius Satallite Radio: Channel 126
2007 Illinois Fighting Illini Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 9
After exorcising some demons against the pesky Badgers, the Buckeyes look to avoid a trap game against the upset-minded Illini, with Michigan and a NC berth looming the following weekend. Last season in Champaign, the dominating 2006 squad hit a major speed bump. A year older and more talented, Zook brings three premiere offensive players into the Horseshoe looking for another win on the revenge tour.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Juice Williams (6-2, 223, SO, Chicago Voc HS, Chicago, IL)
QB #10 Eddie McGee (6-4, 200, FR, Woodson HS, Washington, DC)
Isaiah "Juice" Williams was a highly-coveted prospect, collecting offers from all over including Ohio State. Between his arm strength and superior mobility, Zook's typical recruiting prowess had landed Illinois a quarterback with all the tools. With Brasic struggling, Juice was thrust into the starting lineup, throwing for 227 yards & 2 tds in two quarters against Syracuse. Much like his pro counterpart in the windy city, Juice struggled to play consistent football. This season has seen the sophomore take steps backwards, leading Zook to yank his starter on numerous occasions for backup McGee. However, ever since leading a tremendous rally against Missouri in the opener, Eddie "The Closer" McGee has been even more inconsistent than Juice.
Last year, Juice strung together seven straight 100 yard passing games as a true freshman, but has done so only 3 times this year, and less than 130 yards in each of those outings. Since his breakout performance against Missouri (227 yards), McGee's performance has been subpar statistically, throwing for only 33, 52, & 46.
As passers, the Illini do not strike fear into anyone but their own fanbase & coaching staff. However, Juice is a tremendous athlete and is a natural fit for the Illini's spread option ground attack and will provide a challenge for any defense.
QB Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State QBs
Williams (P/R): 105/187 (56.2%), 1138 yards, 8 TDs, 9 INTs, 111.8 rating; 111/568, 5 TDs
McGee (P/R): 28/54 (51.9%), 388 yards, 1 TDs, 3 INTs, 107.2 rating; 28/146, 2 TDs
Boeckman (P/R): 156/237 (65.8%), 1965 yards, 23 TDs, 8 INTs, 160.7 rating; 32/8, 0 TDs
Williams and McGee have struggled all season to find their targets, and will likely continue this trend this week against Ohio State. Boeckman has been a consistent force in the passing game and is beginning to gain national recognition from pundits and scouts alike. His efficiency, ball security & big play potential has a young Ohio State team on the brink of a second straight title game appearance.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #5 Rashard Mendenhall (5-11, 224, JR, Niles West HS, Skokie, IL)
Mendenhall has waited patiently for his turn, logging 640 yards, 8 yards per carry & 5 tds in a backup role last season. But with Pierre Thomas off to the NFL, Zook has handed him the keys to the Illini offense. He has responded with a tremendous season, breaking the thousand yard barrier before the month of November. Before the Iowa upset, Mendenhall had garnered legitimate Heisman consideration after carrying his team with ten touchdowns in six outings. The letdown against Iowa & Michigan was not on Mendenhall, who averaged over 4.5 ypc, but rather Juice whose inconsistent passing could not keep defenses honest.
Juice, the quarterback, provides the rest of the ground attack, racking up nearly 600 yards and 5 touchdowns. At 223 pounds, he has the strength to run through tacklers and the athleticism to run around and past would-be defenders. Beyond Juice, backup RB Dufrene & WR Benn have racked up about 150 yards, with a pair of TDs for Dufrene.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State RBs
Mendenhall: 192/1314 yards, 14 TDs, 6.8 YPC; 25 rec 226 yards, 2 TDs, 9.0 YPR
Williams: 111/568 yards, 5 TDs, 5.1 YPC; N/A (Quarterback)
C Wells: 195/1165 yards, 7 TDs, 6.0 YPC; 5 rec/21 yards, 0 TDs, 4.2 YPR
M Wells: 96/335 yards, 2 TDs, 3.5 YPC; 9 rec/49 yards, 1 TD, 5.4 YPR
Saine: 51/247 yards, 2 TDs, 4.8 YPC: 9 rec/91 yards, 1 TD, 10.1 YPR
Both teams have quality players at the top of the board, with Mendenhall and Wells having phenomenal seasons. Mendenhall has a strong edge in scoring and is more invaluable to his offense, while Ohio State has been productive in the passing game while Beanie was limited by injury. Depth goes to the Bucks for true RBs, but Illinois' two headed option attack has been lethal all season.
Edge: Illinois
Wide Receivers
WR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2, 215, FR, Dunbar HS, Washington, DC)
WR #83 Jacob Willis (5-11, 182, SR, Centennial HS, Champaign, IL)
Zook pulled off a major recruiting coup landing the nation's 12th best prospect in Arrelious Benn, who at 6'2" 215 had NFL size before playing a single snap in college. His rare combination of size and strength was never more evident than against Penn State, where he went through a half-dozen tacklers and broke free for a receiving TD. He will present an excellent challenge for the physical Jenkins this weekend.
Unfortunately for the Illini, the inconsistent play at QB has limited his impact, as seen by his lone TD catch. This has also enabled defenses to key on the talented youngster, with little fear of serious damage from other wideouts. Neither Juice (the starter) or McGee are reliable beyond 5-10 yards. The spread option attack also features many similarities to Florida & West Virginia, with misdirection and horizontal passing attacks. This has led to many catches for RB Mendenhall, Illinois' 2nd leading receiver, and former HS RB Brian Gamble, who lines up as a slot WR & wing back.
WR Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State WRs
Benn: 46 catches, 573 yards, 1 TDs, 12.5 YPR
Willis: 16 catches, 212 yards, 2 TDs, 13.3 YPR
Gamble: 107 catches, 30 yards, 0 TDs, 11.9 YPR
Robiskie: 44 catches, 833 yards, 10 TDs, 18.9 YPR
Hartline: 41 catches, 524 yards, 5 TDs, 12.8 YPR
Small: 17 catches, 240 yards, 2 TDs, 14.1 YPR
The Buckeyes have a dangerous tandem, while the Illini have only one premiere wideout with any semblance of consistency. Depth, talent & production are greatly in the corner of the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #17 Jeff Cumberland (6-5, 244, SO, Brookhaven HS, Columbus, OH)
TE #16 Michael Hoomanawanui (6-5, 261, SO, Central Catholic HS, Bloomington, IL)
What the Illini lack in experience, they make up in raw talent. Tight end is no exception to this rule, where sophomore Jeff Cumberland brings tremendous athleticism to the position. To maximize his ability, Illinois moves him around the formation. He only caught passes in two games, but registered touchdowns in both outings. Fellow sophomore Hoomanawanui, from the same high school as Ohio State recruit Josh Brent, has only registered 3 catches on the year. Much like last year, look for the Illini to find ways to involve Cumberland.
TE Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State TEs
Cumberland: 5 catches, 75 yards, 2 TDs, 15.0 YPR
Hoomanawanui: 3 catches, 41 yards, 1 TDs, 13.7 YPR
Nicol: 16 catches, 84 yards, 0 TDs, 5.3 YPR
Ballard: 10 catches, 119 yards, 2 TDs, 11.9 YPR
Nicol has been solid for the Buckeyes, and Ballard has also become a nice option, catching a TD in 2 straight games. The Illini have untapped potential thus far in the 07 season.
Edge: Ohio State
Offensive Line
LT #69 Akim Millington (6-6, 310, SR)
LG #64 Martin O'Donnell (6-5, 300, SR)
C #60 Ryan McDonald (6-5, 300, JR)
RG #52 Jon Asamoah (6-5, 265, SO)
RT #76 Charles Myles (6-6, 320, SR)
Illinois front lines are much improved from last year, leading the nation's 6th best rushing offense and yielding only 10 sacks all year (8th best nationally). They were a vital cog in Mendenhall's darkhorse Heisman campaign, until Iowa laid out the blueprint for derailing this attack, which Michigan continued the following week. Both exploited the Illini's unbalanced offense, stacking the box and forcing Illinois to pass their way to victory. Suddenly the maulers up front were unable to clear lanes for their talented runners, as they were held to 137 yards rushing in each contest (without much passing yardage in return). UM was also able to get past Illinois' pass protection, recording 4 sacks, a big change from most of the season.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State OL
The Buckeyes have been plowing open holes and protecting their QB all season en route to an undefeated record. The Illini have also had a strong season, but their two-week slump has knocked some of the shine off of the rest of their season. The Buckeye maulers powered their way through tough spots this season, and thus get the nod between two very productive units.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
Offensively, the Illini feature one of the nation's most prolific rushing attacks, thanks to two gifted runners in the backfield. Their spread option attack has accumulated 261 yards a game, 6th best nationally. However, their passing offense is the complete opposite, averaging only 152 yards a game, 7th worst nationally. That lack of balance has hurt them on the scoreboard, where their 27.6 points per game is only 58th in the nation. Strangely enough for a rushing attack, their time of possession is near the bottom of the barrel at 28:44, 92nd nationally. They must improve upon this if they hope to move the ball on a talented Buckeye defense and keep pace with their offensive counterparts.
Overall Offensive Rating: B
After exorcising some demons against the pesky Badgers, the Buckeyes look to avoid a trap game against the upset-minded Illini, with Michigan and a NC berth looming the following weekend. Last season in Champaign, the dominating 2006 squad hit a major speed bump. A year older and more talented, Zook brings three premiere offensive players into the Horseshoe looking for another win on the revenge tour.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Juice Williams (6-2, 223, SO, Chicago Voc HS, Chicago, IL)
QB #10 Eddie McGee (6-4, 200, FR, Woodson HS, Washington, DC)
Isaiah "Juice" Williams was a highly-coveted prospect, collecting offers from all over including Ohio State. Between his arm strength and superior mobility, Zook's typical recruiting prowess had landed Illinois a quarterback with all the tools. With Brasic struggling, Juice was thrust into the starting lineup, throwing for 227 yards & 2 tds in two quarters against Syracuse. Much like his pro counterpart in the windy city, Juice struggled to play consistent football. This season has seen the sophomore take steps backwards, leading Zook to yank his starter on numerous occasions for backup McGee. However, ever since leading a tremendous rally against Missouri in the opener, Eddie "The Closer" McGee has been even more inconsistent than Juice.
Last year, Juice strung together seven straight 100 yard passing games as a true freshman, but has done so only 3 times this year, and less than 130 yards in each of those outings. Since his breakout performance against Missouri (227 yards), McGee's performance has been subpar statistically, throwing for only 33, 52, & 46.
As passers, the Illini do not strike fear into anyone but their own fanbase & coaching staff. However, Juice is a tremendous athlete and is a natural fit for the Illini's spread option ground attack and will provide a challenge for any defense.
QB Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State QBs
Williams (P/R): 105/187 (56.2%), 1138 yards, 8 TDs, 9 INTs, 111.8 rating; 111/568, 5 TDs
McGee (P/R): 28/54 (51.9%), 388 yards, 1 TDs, 3 INTs, 107.2 rating; 28/146, 2 TDs
Boeckman (P/R): 156/237 (65.8%), 1965 yards, 23 TDs, 8 INTs, 160.7 rating; 32/8, 0 TDs
Williams and McGee have struggled all season to find their targets, and will likely continue this trend this week against Ohio State. Boeckman has been a consistent force in the passing game and is beginning to gain national recognition from pundits and scouts alike. His efficiency, ball security & big play potential has a young Ohio State team on the brink of a second straight title game appearance.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #5 Rashard Mendenhall (5-11, 224, JR, Niles West HS, Skokie, IL)
Mendenhall has waited patiently for his turn, logging 640 yards, 8 yards per carry & 5 tds in a backup role last season. But with Pierre Thomas off to the NFL, Zook has handed him the keys to the Illini offense. He has responded with a tremendous season, breaking the thousand yard barrier before the month of November. Before the Iowa upset, Mendenhall had garnered legitimate Heisman consideration after carrying his team with ten touchdowns in six outings. The letdown against Iowa & Michigan was not on Mendenhall, who averaged over 4.5 ypc, but rather Juice whose inconsistent passing could not keep defenses honest.
Juice, the quarterback, provides the rest of the ground attack, racking up nearly 600 yards and 5 touchdowns. At 223 pounds, he has the strength to run through tacklers and the athleticism to run around and past would-be defenders. Beyond Juice, backup RB Dufrene & WR Benn have racked up about 150 yards, with a pair of TDs for Dufrene.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State RBs
Mendenhall: 192/1314 yards, 14 TDs, 6.8 YPC; 25 rec 226 yards, 2 TDs, 9.0 YPR
Williams: 111/568 yards, 5 TDs, 5.1 YPC; N/A (Quarterback)
C Wells: 195/1165 yards, 7 TDs, 6.0 YPC; 5 rec/21 yards, 0 TDs, 4.2 YPR
M Wells: 96/335 yards, 2 TDs, 3.5 YPC; 9 rec/49 yards, 1 TD, 5.4 YPR
Saine: 51/247 yards, 2 TDs, 4.8 YPC: 9 rec/91 yards, 1 TD, 10.1 YPR
Both teams have quality players at the top of the board, with Mendenhall and Wells having phenomenal seasons. Mendenhall has a strong edge in scoring and is more invaluable to his offense, while Ohio State has been productive in the passing game while Beanie was limited by injury. Depth goes to the Bucks for true RBs, but Illinois' two headed option attack has been lethal all season.
Edge: Illinois
Wide Receivers
WR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2, 215, FR, Dunbar HS, Washington, DC)
WR #83 Jacob Willis (5-11, 182, SR, Centennial HS, Champaign, IL)
Zook pulled off a major recruiting coup landing the nation's 12th best prospect in Arrelious Benn, who at 6'2" 215 had NFL size before playing a single snap in college. His rare combination of size and strength was never more evident than against Penn State, where he went through a half-dozen tacklers and broke free for a receiving TD. He will present an excellent challenge for the physical Jenkins this weekend.
Unfortunately for the Illini, the inconsistent play at QB has limited his impact, as seen by his lone TD catch. This has also enabled defenses to key on the talented youngster, with little fear of serious damage from other wideouts. Neither Juice (the starter) or McGee are reliable beyond 5-10 yards. The spread option attack also features many similarities to Florida & West Virginia, with misdirection and horizontal passing attacks. This has led to many catches for RB Mendenhall, Illinois' 2nd leading receiver, and former HS RB Brian Gamble, who lines up as a slot WR & wing back.
WR Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State WRs
Benn: 46 catches, 573 yards, 1 TDs, 12.5 YPR
Willis: 16 catches, 212 yards, 2 TDs, 13.3 YPR
Gamble: 107 catches, 30 yards, 0 TDs, 11.9 YPR
Robiskie: 44 catches, 833 yards, 10 TDs, 18.9 YPR
Hartline: 41 catches, 524 yards, 5 TDs, 12.8 YPR
Small: 17 catches, 240 yards, 2 TDs, 14.1 YPR
The Buckeyes have a dangerous tandem, while the Illini have only one premiere wideout with any semblance of consistency. Depth, talent & production are greatly in the corner of the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #17 Jeff Cumberland (6-5, 244, SO, Brookhaven HS, Columbus, OH)
TE #16 Michael Hoomanawanui (6-5, 261, SO, Central Catholic HS, Bloomington, IL)
What the Illini lack in experience, they make up in raw talent. Tight end is no exception to this rule, where sophomore Jeff Cumberland brings tremendous athleticism to the position. To maximize his ability, Illinois moves him around the formation. He only caught passes in two games, but registered touchdowns in both outings. Fellow sophomore Hoomanawanui, from the same high school as Ohio State recruit Josh Brent, has only registered 3 catches on the year. Much like last year, look for the Illini to find ways to involve Cumberland.
TE Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State TEs
Cumberland: 5 catches, 75 yards, 2 TDs, 15.0 YPR
Hoomanawanui: 3 catches, 41 yards, 1 TDs, 13.7 YPR
Nicol: 16 catches, 84 yards, 0 TDs, 5.3 YPR
Ballard: 10 catches, 119 yards, 2 TDs, 11.9 YPR
Nicol has been solid for the Buckeyes, and Ballard has also become a nice option, catching a TD in 2 straight games. The Illini have untapped potential thus far in the 07 season.
Edge: Ohio State
Offensive Line
LT #69 Akim Millington (6-6, 310, SR)
LG #64 Martin O'Donnell (6-5, 300, SR)
C #60 Ryan McDonald (6-5, 300, JR)
RG #52 Jon Asamoah (6-5, 265, SO)
RT #76 Charles Myles (6-6, 320, SR)
Illinois front lines are much improved from last year, leading the nation's 6th best rushing offense and yielding only 10 sacks all year (8th best nationally). They were a vital cog in Mendenhall's darkhorse Heisman campaign, until Iowa laid out the blueprint for derailing this attack, which Michigan continued the following week. Both exploited the Illini's unbalanced offense, stacking the box and forcing Illinois to pass their way to victory. Suddenly the maulers up front were unable to clear lanes for their talented runners, as they were held to 137 yards rushing in each contest (without much passing yardage in return). UM was also able to get past Illinois' pass protection, recording 4 sacks, a big change from most of the season.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus Ohio State OL
The Buckeyes have been plowing open holes and protecting their QB all season en route to an undefeated record. The Illini have also had a strong season, but their two-week slump has knocked some of the shine off of the rest of their season. The Buckeye maulers powered their way through tough spots this season, and thus get the nod between two very productive units.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
Offensively, the Illini feature one of the nation's most prolific rushing attacks, thanks to two gifted runners in the backfield. Their spread option attack has accumulated 261 yards a game, 6th best nationally. However, their passing offense is the complete opposite, averaging only 152 yards a game, 7th worst nationally. That lack of balance has hurt them on the scoreboard, where their 27.6 points per game is only 58th in the nation. Strangely enough for a rushing attack, their time of possession is near the bottom of the barrel at 28:44, 92nd nationally. They must improve upon this if they hope to move the ball on a talented Buckeye defense and keep pace with their offensive counterparts.
Overall Offensive Rating: B
2007 Illinois Fighting Illini Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 9
You might be surprised to hear that last year's Illinois defense was pretty respectable, giving up only 310 yards per game. What they didn't do, however, was stop anyone when they needed to. Making matters worse, even though the total yardage was respectable, the Illini did give up nearly 27 points a game. Still, the makings of a solid defense were evident in 2006. With 9 starters returned from 2006, it was anticipated this group would get better.
This season, the Illini are giving up more yards, mostly on account of a secondary which has had problems (including injury - particularly that of CB Travon Bellamy who was expected to start), but less points. The Illini surrender 355 yards per contest, good for 46th best in the nation and 7th in the Big Ten. Ohio State remains the nation's top defense in terms of yards against, giving up just 221.2 per game. Rushing defense is the strong suit for Illinois, averaging 112.5 yards against, 22nd in the nation and 3rd in the Big Ten. Ohio State drops to 3rd in the nation, but remains first in the Big Ten at 65.0 yards against. While Ohio State is about 50 yards better in terms of rush defense, the real difference can be seen in the passing defense. Illinois gives up 242.5 per game, placing them 81st in the nation and 9th in the Big Ten. Ohio State is now second in the nation (and first in the Big Ten) in pass defense, surrendering 156.2 per game. Still, even though Illinois has given up more yards in 2007 than in 2006, they've done a better job on the score board, having the 21st rated scoring defense in the nation, 4th in the Big Ten, at 19.1. Ohio State remains first at 9.7.
The Illini have picked off 11 passes in 2007, but none have been returned. While the Buckeyes have 1 less pick (10) they have returned two of them for scores. Both the Illini and the Buckeyes have recovered 8 fumbles - Ohio State however returned one fumble for a score, while the Illini's recoveries have netted only 5 yards. Like the Buckeyes, the Illini have been solid on third down, affording opponents conversions only 39% of the time. The Buckeyes give up a first down 31% of the time. In the red zone, both teams have been very good, with the Illini, in 32 red zone chances allowing 23 scores (72%), 13 of which have been touchdowns. The Buckeyes, in 15 red zone chances, have afforded 10 scores (67%) six of which have been touchdowns.
Defensive Line
LE #91 Derek Walker (6-4 270 JR)
LT #96 Chris Norwell (6-6 290 SR)
RT #94 David Lindquist (6-3 280 JR)
RE #81 Will Davis, Jr. (6-3 235 JR)
Chris Norwell is a solid force upon which to anchor the line, earning a reputation in 2006 as a solid run defender and for getting in to the backfield. This year Nowell has 25 Tackles, 3.5 for loss and half a sack. He has also recovered a team leading 3 fumbles. Next to Norwell in the middle is David Lindquist, who was a high school hockey and lacrosse player along with football. In other words, the man is athletic and that has translated in to him leading all Illini linemen in tackles with 35. 6.5 of of those has been for loss, with all but two of those TFL's being sacks. Left end is manned by Derek Walker, who can be outstanding in spurts, but needs to establish more consistency. He has 20 tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 2.5 sacks and a five yard fumble recovery. Davis is the rush end, and he leads the team in TFLs and sacks with 10.5 of the former and 7.5 of the later. A speedy option on the line, he has also recorded 33 tackles thus far.
Back ups include ends; #99 Jerry Brown (6-4 262 rFR), #90 Antonio James (6-5 265 SO), and #95 Doug Pilcher (6-5 260 SO) and tackles; #56 Sirod Williams, Jr. (6-0 270 JR), #92 Josh Brent (6-2 320 FR) and #76 Mike Ware (6-3 255 SR). Each of these men have seen significant action with only Brent and James not having played in ever game, each missing just one. Among them, Pilcher leads with 18 tackles, 6 TFLs and 4.5 sacks. Ware has 11 tackles, 3 for loss and 2 sakcs, while Brown and Brent each have 7 tackles. Brown has 2.5 TFLs and 1.5 sacks, while man-child freshman Brent has 2 TFLs and half a sack. Both Williams and James have 6 tackles, with Williams recording 1 TFL and James recording 1.5 TFLs and a sack.
DL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DL
Vernon Gholston - 24 Tackles, 10.5 TFLs, 10 Sacks, 1 Fumble Rec. (TD)
Cameron Heyward - 21 Tackles, 6.5 TFLs, 2.5 Sacks
Dexter Larimore - 13 Tackles, 4 TFLs, 1 Sack, 1 Fumble Rec.
Doug Worthington - 20 Tackls, 1 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT
Ohio State's D-line has stood up to each task it has been presented this year, helping the defense record an astonishing 10 sacks last week against Wisconsin. While Illinois has been a solid front four, the Buckeyes have done better over the course of the year in getting to the quarterback, tackling behind the line of scrimmage as well as stuffing the run. That's not taking anything away from the Illini, who have played very well up front, but the Buckeyes have been slightly better. Coming in to the season, the Illini had depth issues, but 10 games in they have become comfortable with their rotation, as has Ohio State. Each unit has a play maker, with Norwell and Gholston, and each brings size and speed - though the Buckeyes play larger at rush end than do the Illini. While the edge goes to the Buckeyes here, the gap is not particularly wide.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
SLB #44 Brit Miller (6-1 245 JR)
MLB #47 J. Leman (6-3 243 SR)
WLB #40 Antonio Steele (6-2 210 SR)
The unquestioned leader of this group is the senior middle linebacker, J Leman. With an astonishing 102 tackles in 2007, Leman continues to find his way to the football, despite not being the quickest of players. But, speed or no speed, Leman can make all the plays. He has recorded 7 TFLs, 2.5 sacks and 1 INT as well. On the strong side, Brit Miller has the size to play in the middle (which he did in 2005) and the speed to play on the edges. He has 54 tackles and 5.5 TFLs this season. The weak side is manned by Antonio Steele, a JUCO transfer who brings good speed. Perhaps more of a safety in terms of size, Steele brings the wood. He has a team second best 72 stops on the year with 5 coming for loss, and a pick.
The reserves are SLB #45 Rodney Pittman, Jr. (6-2 235 JR), MLB #43 Sam Carson III (6-1 245 JR), and WLBs #2 Martez Wilson (6-4 236 FR) and #51 Anthony Thornhill (6-1 220 SR). Martez Wilson is the next star in waiting among Illinois LBs. A highly rated recruit out of high school, he has had a solid freshman campaign, recording 24 tackles, 3 TFLs and 2 sacks. Each of Carson, Pittman and Thornhill have seen action in all of the Illini's 10 games, with Carson leading the way with 5 tackles, 0.5 for loss. Pittman has 2 TFLs and a sack to go along with his 4 tackles, while Thornhill has 3 tackles.
LB Rating: B+/A-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 85 Tackles, 7.5 TFLs, 5 Sacks, 2 INT, 1 Fumble Rec.
Marcus Freeman - 68 Tackles, 8.5 TFLs, 1.5 Sacks
Larry Grant - 35 Tackles, 8.5 TFLs, 4 Sacks, 1 INT
There is no question that the Illinois LBs are the strength of their defense. There are few LBs in the country who can stack up against Laurinaitis, but Leman has established himself as an outstanding MLB. Laurinaitis is flashier, and comes up with more impact plays, while Leman has more stops. We might call these two a push, though one could argue either has the slight advantage over the other. Freeman may well be the key difference between the two units. The last several weeks, Freeman has been nothing short of spectacular and is quickly working his way up draft boards. Steele is certainly no slouch, but Freeman brings much more beef from the weak side and can run with anyone. Miller has more tackles than Grant, but Grant is more of a force in the backfield, as well as the secondary. Depth wise, with the exception of Wilson, no Illinois LB gets much chance to shine, while the Buckeyes have no less than 5 LBs with 12 or more tackles. Illinois' group is outstanding, but they are far less "play making" and have less depth than the Buckeyes. Thus, a slight edge goes to Ohio State here.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #1 Vontae Davis (6-0 205 SR)
FS 42 Kevin Mitchell (6-0 200 SR)
SS 32 Justin Harrison (5-11 215 SR)
LCB #28 Dere Hicks (5-10 175 SO)
While a senior laden bunch, the Illini secondary has been the sore spot in an otherwise very good defense. Harrison began his career as a strong safety, but has moved to free safety where he has been better. He leads the secondary with 62 tackles and a fumble recovery. Mitchell did the opposite, beginning his career as a free safety and moving over to strong. The knock on Mitchell had been his coverage, but he's stepped it up in 2007 recording a team leading 4 INTs to go along with his 61 tackles and a TFL. Davis also has 4 INTs, 58 tackles and 2 TFLs, as he assumes the role of the teams lock down corner with the departure of Alan Ball. The other corner was projected to be manned by #31 Travon Bellamy (6-0 195 SO), but his season was ended before it began with shoulder surgery. Manning the spot is Hicks, a former WR. He has 41 cackles, 1.5 for loss and a pick.
Depth at the safety positions is provided by; #25 Justin Sanders (6-1 205 SR), #24 Bo Flowers (6-2 222 FR), and #46 Tyler Rouse (5-10 195 JR), and corners #14 Marcus Thomas (5-10 160 FR), and #15 Chris Duvalt (5-11 170 SO). Sanders is the nickelback, as well as the primary back-up to both safeties, and thus sees plenty of action. He has recorded 44 tackles, 3 TFLs, 3 sacks and a pick. In dime situations, Bo Flowers gets the call. A 23 year old Freshman, he spent the last 4 years playing baseball in the Cubs and Tigers organizations. He has seen action in all 10 games and has 5 tackles. Rouse has played in 6 games and has recored 12 tackles, while Thomas has played in 9 games, where he has made 6 stops and was in on half a TFL. Duvalt has not yet recorded a tackle in 2007 and has but 4 in his career.
DB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DBs
Malcom Jenkins - 40 Tackles, 4 TFL, 3 INT (TD)
Anderson Russell - 49 Tackles, 5.5 TFL, 3 Sacks
Kurt Coleman - 47 Tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 Sack
Donald Washington - 24 Tackles, 1 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT (TD)
The Buckeyes have been among the top pass defenses all season long and have been nothing short of outstanding since the word go. Jenkins continues to be named on the Thorpe list (recently cut down to 12) and is superior to any of the Illini DBs. Washington gets the nod over Hicks, though Washington has been fairly quiet recently. That's not to say he's getting beat, but as the Buckeyes have faced more run oriented teams recently, it seems his name has been called less. Russell has been lights out, as has been Coleman in the middle. Both are strong in run support and coverage. When it comes to depth, the Buckeyes have Chimdi Chekwa, who is putting together a fantastic first year while filling the nickelback role. Jamario O'Neal is a solid contributer, and Shaun Lane has been seeing his time increase. Depth goes to the Buckeyes, even though Sanders is having a fine season himself. The numbers don't lie, and the Buckeyes secondary is some 100 yards better per game.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Illinois has a solid, if not flashy defense. They've improved against the run, and have a trio of very good linebackers. This defense would be quite formidable if it had a stronger secondary, but even as is has done well to keep opponents off the score board, unlike last year. An improving group, this unit is laying the ground work for Illinois to return to it's 1990's form, when it was one of the better units in the Big Ten, certainly, as well as the nation. Zook is brining in big time talent like Martez Wilson, and the future is looking up. It'll be interesting to see how the loss of 6 seniors affects this unit next year. If they are able to handle these departures without a drop off in production, the "play making" aspect should eventually find it's way to Champaign, Illinois.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
You might be surprised to hear that last year's Illinois defense was pretty respectable, giving up only 310 yards per game. What they didn't do, however, was stop anyone when they needed to. Making matters worse, even though the total yardage was respectable, the Illini did give up nearly 27 points a game. Still, the makings of a solid defense were evident in 2006. With 9 starters returned from 2006, it was anticipated this group would get better.
This season, the Illini are giving up more yards, mostly on account of a secondary which has had problems (including injury - particularly that of CB Travon Bellamy who was expected to start), but less points. The Illini surrender 355 yards per contest, good for 46th best in the nation and 7th in the Big Ten. Ohio State remains the nation's top defense in terms of yards against, giving up just 221.2 per game. Rushing defense is the strong suit for Illinois, averaging 112.5 yards against, 22nd in the nation and 3rd in the Big Ten. Ohio State drops to 3rd in the nation, but remains first in the Big Ten at 65.0 yards against. While Ohio State is about 50 yards better in terms of rush defense, the real difference can be seen in the passing defense. Illinois gives up 242.5 per game, placing them 81st in the nation and 9th in the Big Ten. Ohio State is now second in the nation (and first in the Big Ten) in pass defense, surrendering 156.2 per game. Still, even though Illinois has given up more yards in 2007 than in 2006, they've done a better job on the score board, having the 21st rated scoring defense in the nation, 4th in the Big Ten, at 19.1. Ohio State remains first at 9.7.
The Illini have picked off 11 passes in 2007, but none have been returned. While the Buckeyes have 1 less pick (10) they have returned two of them for scores. Both the Illini and the Buckeyes have recovered 8 fumbles - Ohio State however returned one fumble for a score, while the Illini's recoveries have netted only 5 yards. Like the Buckeyes, the Illini have been solid on third down, affording opponents conversions only 39% of the time. The Buckeyes give up a first down 31% of the time. In the red zone, both teams have been very good, with the Illini, in 32 red zone chances allowing 23 scores (72%), 13 of which have been touchdowns. The Buckeyes, in 15 red zone chances, have afforded 10 scores (67%) six of which have been touchdowns.
Defensive Line
LE #91 Derek Walker (6-4 270 JR)
LT #96 Chris Norwell (6-6 290 SR)
RT #94 David Lindquist (6-3 280 JR)
RE #81 Will Davis, Jr. (6-3 235 JR)
Chris Norwell is a solid force upon which to anchor the line, earning a reputation in 2006 as a solid run defender and for getting in to the backfield. This year Nowell has 25 Tackles, 3.5 for loss and half a sack. He has also recovered a team leading 3 fumbles. Next to Norwell in the middle is David Lindquist, who was a high school hockey and lacrosse player along with football. In other words, the man is athletic and that has translated in to him leading all Illini linemen in tackles with 35. 6.5 of of those has been for loss, with all but two of those TFL's being sacks. Left end is manned by Derek Walker, who can be outstanding in spurts, but needs to establish more consistency. He has 20 tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 2.5 sacks and a five yard fumble recovery. Davis is the rush end, and he leads the team in TFLs and sacks with 10.5 of the former and 7.5 of the later. A speedy option on the line, he has also recorded 33 tackles thus far.
Back ups include ends; #99 Jerry Brown (6-4 262 rFR), #90 Antonio James (6-5 265 SO), and #95 Doug Pilcher (6-5 260 SO) and tackles; #56 Sirod Williams, Jr. (6-0 270 JR), #92 Josh Brent (6-2 320 FR) and #76 Mike Ware (6-3 255 SR). Each of these men have seen significant action with only Brent and James not having played in ever game, each missing just one. Among them, Pilcher leads with 18 tackles, 6 TFLs and 4.5 sacks. Ware has 11 tackles, 3 for loss and 2 sakcs, while Brown and Brent each have 7 tackles. Brown has 2.5 TFLs and 1.5 sacks, while man-child freshman Brent has 2 TFLs and half a sack. Both Williams and James have 6 tackles, with Williams recording 1 TFL and James recording 1.5 TFLs and a sack.
DL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DL
Vernon Gholston - 24 Tackles, 10.5 TFLs, 10 Sacks, 1 Fumble Rec. (TD)
Cameron Heyward - 21 Tackles, 6.5 TFLs, 2.5 Sacks
Dexter Larimore - 13 Tackles, 4 TFLs, 1 Sack, 1 Fumble Rec.
Doug Worthington - 20 Tackls, 1 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT
Ohio State's D-line has stood up to each task it has been presented this year, helping the defense record an astonishing 10 sacks last week against Wisconsin. While Illinois has been a solid front four, the Buckeyes have done better over the course of the year in getting to the quarterback, tackling behind the line of scrimmage as well as stuffing the run. That's not taking anything away from the Illini, who have played very well up front, but the Buckeyes have been slightly better. Coming in to the season, the Illini had depth issues, but 10 games in they have become comfortable with their rotation, as has Ohio State. Each unit has a play maker, with Norwell and Gholston, and each brings size and speed - though the Buckeyes play larger at rush end than do the Illini. While the edge goes to the Buckeyes here, the gap is not particularly wide.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
SLB #44 Brit Miller (6-1 245 JR)
MLB #47 J. Leman (6-3 243 SR)
WLB #40 Antonio Steele (6-2 210 SR)
The unquestioned leader of this group is the senior middle linebacker, J Leman. With an astonishing 102 tackles in 2007, Leman continues to find his way to the football, despite not being the quickest of players. But, speed or no speed, Leman can make all the plays. He has recorded 7 TFLs, 2.5 sacks and 1 INT as well. On the strong side, Brit Miller has the size to play in the middle (which he did in 2005) and the speed to play on the edges. He has 54 tackles and 5.5 TFLs this season. The weak side is manned by Antonio Steele, a JUCO transfer who brings good speed. Perhaps more of a safety in terms of size, Steele brings the wood. He has a team second best 72 stops on the year with 5 coming for loss, and a pick.
The reserves are SLB #45 Rodney Pittman, Jr. (6-2 235 JR), MLB #43 Sam Carson III (6-1 245 JR), and WLBs #2 Martez Wilson (6-4 236 FR) and #51 Anthony Thornhill (6-1 220 SR). Martez Wilson is the next star in waiting among Illinois LBs. A highly rated recruit out of high school, he has had a solid freshman campaign, recording 24 tackles, 3 TFLs and 2 sacks. Each of Carson, Pittman and Thornhill have seen action in all of the Illini's 10 games, with Carson leading the way with 5 tackles, 0.5 for loss. Pittman has 2 TFLs and a sack to go along with his 4 tackles, while Thornhill has 3 tackles.
LB Rating: B+/A-
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 85 Tackles, 7.5 TFLs, 5 Sacks, 2 INT, 1 Fumble Rec.
Marcus Freeman - 68 Tackles, 8.5 TFLs, 1.5 Sacks
Larry Grant - 35 Tackles, 8.5 TFLs, 4 Sacks, 1 INT
There is no question that the Illinois LBs are the strength of their defense. There are few LBs in the country who can stack up against Laurinaitis, but Leman has established himself as an outstanding MLB. Laurinaitis is flashier, and comes up with more impact plays, while Leman has more stops. We might call these two a push, though one could argue either has the slight advantage over the other. Freeman may well be the key difference between the two units. The last several weeks, Freeman has been nothing short of spectacular and is quickly working his way up draft boards. Steele is certainly no slouch, but Freeman brings much more beef from the weak side and can run with anyone. Miller has more tackles than Grant, but Grant is more of a force in the backfield, as well as the secondary. Depth wise, with the exception of Wilson, no Illinois LB gets much chance to shine, while the Buckeyes have no less than 5 LBs with 12 or more tackles. Illinois' group is outstanding, but they are far less "play making" and have less depth than the Buckeyes. Thus, a slight edge goes to Ohio State here.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #1 Vontae Davis (6-0 205 SR)
FS 42 Kevin Mitchell (6-0 200 SR)
SS 32 Justin Harrison (5-11 215 SR)
LCB #28 Dere Hicks (5-10 175 SO)
While a senior laden bunch, the Illini secondary has been the sore spot in an otherwise very good defense. Harrison began his career as a strong safety, but has moved to free safety where he has been better. He leads the secondary with 62 tackles and a fumble recovery. Mitchell did the opposite, beginning his career as a free safety and moving over to strong. The knock on Mitchell had been his coverage, but he's stepped it up in 2007 recording a team leading 4 INTs to go along with his 61 tackles and a TFL. Davis also has 4 INTs, 58 tackles and 2 TFLs, as he assumes the role of the teams lock down corner with the departure of Alan Ball. The other corner was projected to be manned by #31 Travon Bellamy (6-0 195 SO), but his season was ended before it began with shoulder surgery. Manning the spot is Hicks, a former WR. He has 41 cackles, 1.5 for loss and a pick.
Depth at the safety positions is provided by; #25 Justin Sanders (6-1 205 SR), #24 Bo Flowers (6-2 222 FR), and #46 Tyler Rouse (5-10 195 JR), and corners #14 Marcus Thomas (5-10 160 FR), and #15 Chris Duvalt (5-11 170 SO). Sanders is the nickelback, as well as the primary back-up to both safeties, and thus sees plenty of action. He has recorded 44 tackles, 3 TFLs, 3 sacks and a pick. In dime situations, Bo Flowers gets the call. A 23 year old Freshman, he spent the last 4 years playing baseball in the Cubs and Tigers organizations. He has seen action in all 10 games and has 5 tackles. Rouse has played in 6 games and has recored 12 tackles, while Thomas has played in 9 games, where he has made 6 stops and was in on half a TFL. Duvalt has not yet recorded a tackle in 2007 and has but 4 in his career.
DB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Illinois versus OSU DBs
Malcom Jenkins - 40 Tackles, 4 TFL, 3 INT (TD)
Anderson Russell - 49 Tackles, 5.5 TFL, 3 Sacks
Kurt Coleman - 47 Tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 Sack
Donald Washington - 24 Tackles, 1 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT (TD)
The Buckeyes have been among the top pass defenses all season long and have been nothing short of outstanding since the word go. Jenkins continues to be named on the Thorpe list (recently cut down to 12) and is superior to any of the Illini DBs. Washington gets the nod over Hicks, though Washington has been fairly quiet recently. That's not to say he's getting beat, but as the Buckeyes have faced more run oriented teams recently, it seems his name has been called less. Russell has been lights out, as has been Coleman in the middle. Both are strong in run support and coverage. When it comes to depth, the Buckeyes have Chimdi Chekwa, who is putting together a fantastic first year while filling the nickelback role. Jamario O'Neal is a solid contributer, and Shaun Lane has been seeing his time increase. Depth goes to the Buckeyes, even though Sanders is having a fine season himself. The numbers don't lie, and the Buckeyes secondary is some 100 yards better per game.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Illinois has a solid, if not flashy defense. They've improved against the run, and have a trio of very good linebackers. This defense would be quite formidable if it had a stronger secondary, but even as is has done well to keep opponents off the score board, unlike last year. An improving group, this unit is laying the ground work for Illinois to return to it's 1990's form, when it was one of the better units in the Big Ten, certainly, as well as the nation. Zook is brining in big time talent like Martez Wilson, and the future is looking up. It'll be interesting to see how the loss of 6 seniors affects this unit next year. If they are able to handle these departures without a drop off in production, the "play making" aspect should eventually find it's way to Champaign, Illinois.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
2007 Illinois Fighting Illini Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 2
Although there are only two returning starters on the Illini's special teams units, their best player is a true freshman. That's not putting the other players down, they are good in their own right, he's just that phenomenal.
Special Teams
P #87 Anthony Santella (6-2 180 rFR)
PK #13 Josh Reda (6-1 204 SR)
PR #21 Kyle Hudson (5-11 166 JR)
KR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2 215 FR)
KR #83 Jacob Willis (5-11 182 SR)
LS #49 Kyle Knezetic (6-0 205 SR)
Kicking Game:
Punter Anthony Santella is a transfer from the Utah Utes. In his first year as the starter for the Illini he is averaging 36.4 per with a long of 59 with 12 of those being inside the 20. He's a solid guy, not making mistakes and he's yet to get one blocked.
Illinois' senior kicker, Josh Reda is much improved; he's 13 of 14 this year with 3 kicks 50 plus yards. He seems to have a big leg, but does not handle the kickoff duties, sophomore Michael Cklamovski holds that position. He's fifth in the Big Ten with 1.25 kicks per game. After having a so-so year last year going 15-19 with a long of only 41 yards. Also this year he was named Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week after going 3-3 hitting 51, 47 and 37-yard field goals.
Kicking Game Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: A.J. Trapasso and Ryan Pretorius vs. Anthony Santella and Josh Reda
It's so frustrating! Pretorius could be a GREAT kicker, but those blocks in situations where they shouldn't even be close are killers. I am still high on Trapasso, one of tOSU's few bright stars on this team. Illinois has two solid kickers who have had no kicks of any sort blocked this season.
Edge: Illinois
Return Game:
Illinois' punt return game isn't spectacular, solid at best actually, but it's about hanging onto the ball and keeping that field position. Manning the position is two-sport athlete Kyle Hudson. Not only does Hudson start at WR and return punts, but he starts at center field for the baseball team. On the gridiron he's averaging a modest 7.5 yards per return, but I think Zook wants a senior with experience in that position.
Mr. Freshman Phenom, Arrelious Benn can do it all it seems. He's the best special teams player on this squad where he is returning kickoffs at a crazy pace. He's averaging 30 yards a return on 7 tries and even took one 90 yards to the house. Much like when he lines up at wide receiver he is very dangerous and the Buckeyes better keep their eyes on him. The reverse seemed to work well against tOSU last week, so I expect if we kick away from him they will find a way to get him the ball.
Return Game Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Brian Hartline, Ray Small and Brandon Saine vs. Kyle Hudson, Arrelious Benn and Jacob Willis
This one is as close of a wash as you will see. tOSU's kick return game is under whelming as is IU's punt return game. On the opposite side of the coin, tOSU's punt return team has looked solid and has a TD, as does Illinois' kick return unit.
Edge: Tie, Benn and Hartline are pretty explosive
Overall Special Teams Analysis
The fighting Illini aren't the best special teams unit, but we have been performing progressively poorer so I think they at the very least are the Buckeyes equals and truthfully are producing more than tOSU. Watch out for Benn, he's going to be an All-American some day. I am hoping for some much needed improvement from Ohio State or otherwise we will get out-performed.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B+
Although there are only two returning starters on the Illini's special teams units, their best player is a true freshman. That's not putting the other players down, they are good in their own right, he's just that phenomenal.
Special Teams
P #87 Anthony Santella (6-2 180 rFR)
PK #13 Josh Reda (6-1 204 SR)
PR #21 Kyle Hudson (5-11 166 JR)
KR #9 Arrelious Benn (6-2 215 FR)
KR #83 Jacob Willis (5-11 182 SR)
LS #49 Kyle Knezetic (6-0 205 SR)
Kicking Game:
Punter Anthony Santella is a transfer from the Utah Utes. In his first year as the starter for the Illini he is averaging 36.4 per with a long of 59 with 12 of those being inside the 20. He's a solid guy, not making mistakes and he's yet to get one blocked.
Illinois' senior kicker, Josh Reda is much improved; he's 13 of 14 this year with 3 kicks 50 plus yards. He seems to have a big leg, but does not handle the kickoff duties, sophomore Michael Cklamovski holds that position. He's fifth in the Big Ten with 1.25 kicks per game. After having a so-so year last year going 15-19 with a long of only 41 yards. Also this year he was named Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week after going 3-3 hitting 51, 47 and 37-yard field goals.
Kicking Game Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: A.J. Trapasso and Ryan Pretorius vs. Anthony Santella and Josh Reda
It's so frustrating! Pretorius could be a GREAT kicker, but those blocks in situations where they shouldn't even be close are killers. I am still high on Trapasso, one of tOSU's few bright stars on this team. Illinois has two solid kickers who have had no kicks of any sort blocked this season.
Edge: Illinois
Return Game:
Illinois' punt return game isn't spectacular, solid at best actually, but it's about hanging onto the ball and keeping that field position. Manning the position is two-sport athlete Kyle Hudson. Not only does Hudson start at WR and return punts, but he starts at center field for the baseball team. On the gridiron he's averaging a modest 7.5 yards per return, but I think Zook wants a senior with experience in that position.
Mr. Freshman Phenom, Arrelious Benn can do it all it seems. He's the best special teams player on this squad where he is returning kickoffs at a crazy pace. He's averaging 30 yards a return on 7 tries and even took one 90 yards to the house. Much like when he lines up at wide receiver he is very dangerous and the Buckeyes better keep their eyes on him. The reverse seemed to work well against tOSU last week, so I expect if we kick away from him they will find a way to get him the ball.
Return Game Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Brian Hartline, Ray Small and Brandon Saine vs. Kyle Hudson, Arrelious Benn and Jacob Willis
This one is as close of a wash as you will see. tOSU's kick return game is under whelming as is IU's punt return game. On the opposite side of the coin, tOSU's punt return team has looked solid and has a TD, as does Illinois' kick return unit.
Edge: Tie, Benn and Hartline are pretty explosive
Overall Special Teams Analysis
The fighting Illini aren't the best special teams unit, but we have been performing progressively poorer so I think they at the very least are the Buckeyes equals and truthfully are producing more than tOSU. Watch out for Benn, he's going to be an All-American some day. I am hoping for some much needed improvement from Ohio State or otherwise we will get out-performed.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B+
Predictions
BB73's prediction: 27-10, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 33-17, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 34-10, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 38-12, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 38 - Wisconsin 17)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(0, 29, 15, 22, 14, 18, 9, 14, 1, 5 = 134) OSUSushichic's prediction: 37-13, Ohio State (1 + 4 = 5 + 129 last week)
(11, 14, 10, 12, 21, 22, 9, 8, 18, 14 = 139) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 35-6, Ohio State (3 + 11 = 14 + 125 last week)
(1, 19, 10, 18, 15, 18, 7, 18, 24, 11 = 141) OSUBucks22's: 31-13, Ohio State (7 + 4 = 11 + 130 last week)
(4, 29, 9, 23, 17, 27, 10, 10, 18, 15 = 152) BB73's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State (11 + 4 = 15 + 137 last week)
(2, 22, 18, 28, 17, 23, 13, 14, 23, 8 = 158) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 37-10, Ohio State (1 + 7 = 8 + 150 last week)
(7, 25, 14, 40, 11, 22, 17, 10, 13, 14 = 173) Buckeyeryn's prediction: 28-13, Ohio State (10 + 4 = 14 + 159 last week)
(10, 30, 15, 25, 19, DNP (28), 15, 13, 21, 1 = 177) jwinslow's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State (1 + 0 = 1 + 176 last week)
(7, 22, 12, DNP (40), DNP (22), 28, 9, 7, 21, 15 = 183) daddyphatsac's prediction: DNP, Ohio State (DNP (15) = 15 + 168 last week)
(0, 33, 17, 25, 14, 21, 21, 15, 34, 14 = 184) Hubbard's prediction: 28-13, Ohio State (10 + 4 = 14 + 170 last week)
(17, 22, 16, 27, 22, 28, 13, 11, 18, 11 = 185) Bucklion's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (7 + 4 = 11 + 174 last week)
(16, 33, 10, 28, 19, 25, 17, 21, 13, 11 = 193) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 42-10, Ohio State (4 + 7 = 11 + 182 last week)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed:
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 33-17, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 34-10, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 38-12, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 38 - Wisconsin 17)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(0, 29, 15, 22, 14, 18, 9, 14, 1, 5 = 134) OSUSushichic's prediction: 37-13, Ohio State (1 + 4 = 5 + 129 last week)
(11, 14, 10, 12, 21, 22, 9, 8, 18, 14 = 139) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 35-6, Ohio State (3 + 11 = 14 + 125 last week)
(1, 19, 10, 18, 15, 18, 7, 18, 24, 11 = 141) OSUBucks22's: 31-13, Ohio State (7 + 4 = 11 + 130 last week)
(4, 29, 9, 23, 17, 27, 10, 10, 18, 15 = 152) BB73's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State (11 + 4 = 15 + 137 last week)
(2, 22, 18, 28, 17, 23, 13, 14, 23, 8 = 158) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 37-10, Ohio State (1 + 7 = 8 + 150 last week)
(7, 25, 14, 40, 11, 22, 17, 10, 13, 14 = 173) Buckeyeryn's prediction: 28-13, Ohio State (10 + 4 = 14 + 159 last week)
(10, 30, 15, 25, 19, DNP (28), 15, 13, 21, 1 = 177) jwinslow's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State (1 + 0 = 1 + 176 last week)
(7, 22, 12, DNP (40), DNP (22), 28, 9, 7, 21, 15 = 183) daddyphatsac's prediction: DNP, Ohio State (DNP (15) = 15 + 168 last week)
(0, 33, 17, 25, 14, 21, 21, 15, 34, 14 = 184) Hubbard's prediction: 28-13, Ohio State (10 + 4 = 14 + 170 last week)
(17, 22, 16, 27, 22, 28, 13, 11, 18, 11 = 185) Bucklion's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (7 + 4 = 11 + 174 last week)
(16, 33, 10, 28, 19, 25, 17, 21, 13, 11 = 193) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 42-10, Ohio State (4 + 7 = 11 + 182 last week)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed:
