Illinois Fighter Illini limp into this match-up following back-to-back losses to the Michigan State Spartans and Purdue Boilermakers. Unfortunately, for Illinois, they face their largest challenge as they travel to Ann Arbor to face the undefeated Michigan Wolverines.
Illinois remains in first place in the Big Ten West for now, but that could change with additional losses down the stretch. Illinois will attack the Wolverines' defense with a balanced approach.
QB Tommy DeVito has played well in 2022 so far. DeVito doesn't have eye-popping statistics, but a 15:3 TD-to-interception ratio will work for an Illinois offense that runs the ball as effectively as they do.
Speaking of the running game, Illinois RB Chase Brown is having a spectacular season with little national notoriety. Brown has 1,442 rushing yards with seven TDs. Brown will once again be the featured player on offense in this one.
Michigan has been a machine this season, blowing out opponents with ease. QB J.J. McCarthy is a game manager, but he serves his role well with 14 TD passes and two interceptions.
Blake Corum continues to be the engine of the Wolverines' offense. Corum has been sensational all season long, to the tune of 1,349 yards and 17 TDs! The Illinois defense will get tired of seeing him running the ball on Saturday.
The betting odds and predictions are below:
$1,000 No Sweat First Bet with FanDuel
Michigan Wolverines vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Details
Fixture: Illinois Fighting Illini' @ Michigan Wolverines
Date and Time: Saturday, November 19, 12:00 PM ET
Venue: Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Michigan Wolverines vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Best Pick
Blake Corum is the headliner for this game. Perhaps for the remainder of the season. Blake Corum is the heart and soul of the Michigan Wolverines offense, and the coaching staff continues to ride their rushing attack to victories. Blake Corum is a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy, and I don't see his production slowing down anytime soon.
Blake Corum, Rushing Yards: Over
Michigan Wolverines vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Final Prediction
Illinois does not have enough to stay with the Michigan Wolverines for 60 minutes as the latter's rushing attack wears the opposition down. The Wolverines have a mauling offensive line that paves the way for Heisman-hopeful RB Blake Corum. The Wolverines know they have a date with destiny when they face the Ohio State Buckeyes in a few weeks. Michigan keeps its eye on the prize and dispatches the Fighting Illini. Take the Michigan Wolverines to win easily.
Michigan Wolverines -18 (-110)
$1,000 No Sweat First Bet with FanDuel