The Michigan Wolverines are determined to rebound as they travel to face the Illinois Fighting Illini. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Over 43.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Michigan vs. Illinois
Saturday, October 19, 2024 – 03:30 PM ET at Memorial Stadium
Michigan Struggles to Keep Pace With Washington
In their National Championship rematch on October 5, Michigan couldn’t close out the game against Washington, falling 27-17. The Wolverines initially rallied from an early 14-0 deficit, even taking a 17-14 lead, but were shut out in the final quarter as Washington capitalized on Michigan’s late-game mistakes.
This marked Michigan’s first conference loss of the season and allowed Washington to avenge its previous 34-13 defeat in the 2023 national title game.
Despite some flashes of success, Michigan’s offense struggled to find consistency. Backup quarterback Jack Tuttle replaced Alex Orji and helped the Wolverines score 17 unanswered points between the second and third quarters. However, two crucial turnovers by Tuttle—a fumble and an interception—enabled Washington to take control and seal the game with two late touchdowns.
On the positive side, running back Donovan Edwards delivered a strong performance with 118 yards on 16 touches, including a touchdown. The Wolverines finished with 287 yards of total offense, evenly split between 174 rushing and 113 passing.
Michigan’s defense had its moments as well. Linebacker Ernest Hausmann led the charge with a career-high 12 tackles and an interception. Defensive linemen Josaiah Stewart and TJ Guy added to the defensive effort with a combined 2.5 sacks and several key tackles for loss.
Illinois Survives a Thriller Against Purdue
Illinois, on the other hand, edged Purdue in a 50-49 overtime victory. Quarterback Luke Altmyer connected with Pat Bryant on a 25-yard touchdown pass in OT, and Dylan Rosiek’s sack on Purdue’s two-point conversion attempt clinched the win. Altmyer threw for 379 yards and three touchdowns, while running back Josh McCray added 78 rushing yards and two scores.
Illinois played the game without their leading rusher Kaden Feagin, who missed the contest due to a hyperextended left leg suffered in practice. Head coach Bret Bielema mentioned that Feagin will be sidelined “for a little bit.” Feagin had accumulated 306 rushing yards and three touchdowns over Illinois’ first five games.
Keys to the Game
Edwards will once again be the focal point of Michigan’s offense. After posting 118 yards against Washington, Edwards will look to replicate his success against an Illinois defense that could struggle without their top rusher, Feagin. Illinois will need playmakers like Rosiek to step up and stifle Michigan’s ground game. If the Wolverines can dominate on the ground, it will open up opportunities for the passing game.
Tuttle’s performance will be under the microscope after his late-game turnovers against Washington proved costly. Illinois’ defense, which showed its ability to capitalize on mistakes in the overtime win over Purdue, will aim to force Tuttle into similar errors.
Tuttle’s ability to manage the game and limit turnovers will be critical for Michigan to keep momentum on their side.
Altmyer will be relied upon heavily in the absence of Feagin. After throwing for 379 yards and three touchdowns against Purdue, Altmyer will need to replicate that production against a Michigan defense that features standouts like Hausmann, who posted 12 tackles and an interception against Washington.
Michigan’s defensive front, with Stewart and Guy combining for 2.5 sacks against Washington, will put pressure on Altmyer to make quick decisions.
Both teams have been affected by turnovers in recent games. Michigan’s two late turnovers against Washington and Illinois’ key defensive stand in OT against Purdue highlight the importance of ball security.
The team that wins the turnover battle will likely have the upper hand, especially in what could be a tight contest. Michigan must protect the ball in the fourth quarter, while Illinois will look to exploit any mistakes.
NCAAF Pick
This matchup will likely be determined by which team can better manage the game’s physical nature and capitalize on key moments. Michigan will lean on their running game and a stout defense to control the pace, while Illinois will look to Altmyer to carry their offensive load in the absence of Feagin.
Expect Michigan’s running game, powered by Edwards, to wear down the Illinois defense.
If Tuttle can avoid critical mistakes, Michigan’s defensive playmakers should be able to contain Altmyer and make enough big plays to secure the victory in a high-scoring battle.
NCAAF Pick: Over 43.5 (-110) at Bet365
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