This is a make-or-break game for both Illinois and Penn State, which have their respective fan bases’ attention, but still have fans skeptical that they can have successful seasons. Both teams have shown some promise, but they’ve been inconsistent and look like they might have been benefiting from knocking off cupcakes.
How to watch Illinois vs. Penn State on TV or online, plus 3 things to know
We should learn a lot about both teams.
Penn State took some heat in giving up 10 sacks in a loss to Temple in the first week of the season, but it turns out Temple is pretty good, so that can be forgiven. However, the Nittany Lions’ six wins have come against less-than-overwhelming competition — Buffalo, Rutgers, Army, San Diego State, Indiana and Maryland — and even the win against Maryland was close. PSU was also blown out by Ohio State, with the toughest part of its schedule still to come. Is this team really as good as its record?
The same goes for Illinois. The Illini looked improved at the beginning of the season, but then got blown out by North Carolina. They came back and looked solid in a win against Nebraska, but then lost to Iowa and Wisconsin. For this team to even be above average would be impressive, given that it has an interim coach, but it’s tough to say Illinois is any better than average at this point.
This game will tell us a lot about both teams.
How to watch, stream and listen
TV: Noon ET, ESPN2
Radio: Illinois, Penn State
Online streaming: WatchESPN
Spread: Penn State is favored by 6 points.
Make friends: Get to SB Nation’s team blog chats for this game at The Champaign Room for Illinois fans and Black Shoe Diaries for Penn State fans.
Three big things to know
1. Christian Hackenberg has had a rough year, partly because he hasn’t had any help, but also partly because he’s made poor decisions with the ball. Can he be better against a much improved Illinois pass defense?
2. The Illinois offense hasn’t been great this year against great defenses. Quarterback Wes Lunt needs to be much better than he was against Iowa or Wisconsin.
3. Illinois has an inconsistent offensive line and Penn State has a great defensive line. That could make the difference.
See More:
