Preview: Ohio State vs. #14 Illinois

The defense will have their hands full

For once in a long time, the sides are flipped. The Illinois Fighting Illini (6-0, 2-0) are undefeated and host the Ohio State Buckeyes (3-3, 0-2), who are in a down year without a doubt, in this week's Big Ten match-up. The Illini enter perfect, behind the arm of sensational sophomore quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase, who has thrown 80/120 (66% completion percentage) for 1,238 yards and 10 touchdowns so far this season. Illinois has reason to be excited heading into this game against the Buckeyes, as the Illini are off to their best start since 1951, and has a lot of motivation to win this game, since the last time they beat Ohio State in Champaign was 1991. Senior receiver A.J. Jenkins is the go-to man in this offense, and he leads the conference in receptions. With all of this hype, a win over the Buckeyes could be the cherry on top for an already amazing season. This could give them some serious momentum heading into the rest of their conference slate, and could provide Illinois with a chance for a shot at BCS glory.

Of course, Ohio State has some weapons of their own. Carlos Hyde rushed for 109 yards against Nebraska, and Braxton Miller controlled the squad to a big 20 point lead. The offense in the second half suffered a huge blow when Miller went down with an ankle injury, but reports tell us that Miller is fine, and is ready to play against Illinois. Boom Herron returns in this game, but might not see many carries with the way Jordan Hall and Hyde have been carrying the ball. Against the Illini defense, which is ranked 17th in the country, the Buckeyes will have to bring their best.

The Silver Bullets will have their hands full, and when word came out that Nathan Williams is out for the rest of the season, it coupled with the fact of giving up 20 straight points in the second half showing against Nebraska. The offense for Ohio State is young, and if they want a chance to compete and keep this game within striking distance, it's got to start with the defense. John Simon and Andrew Sweat are going to have to lead the charge, and the secondary most certainly have to be at their best to face this tough passing attack.

If Braxton Miller is 100% healthy, I have to trust this Ohio State offense. What I saw against Nebraska in the first half was exactly what needed to be done. The second half was horrible, and if Braxton isn't 100%, I think OSU will have a tough time handling Illinois's offensive pressure. This is a team that steps on their own foot, but it's possible to upset Illinois. I think the Buckeyes do prevail, 24-21.