OSU at Illinois

November 15

Overview:

OSU has lost only two conference games since 2005; Penn State in 2005 to give JoePa his 314th win and last years “no fumble” game with Illinois.  Revenge is a harsh word rather redemption would be a more fitting title to this contest.  19 returning starters and 27 seniors have had this game circled for the past year and the Bucks won’t disappoint.

By Pete Quint

Preview:

    Juice Williams is back at quarterback for the Illini but will he have more control over his passing game.  I’ve said before that Jim Tressel trouble has always been a mobile quarterback and Juice is as mobile as they come but his accuracy has been suspect.  Illinois doesn’t have the big ground game they had last year and will have to rely on Juice’s arm to move the ball against the Buckeye defense.  On the other side of the ball Illinois’ defense looks like the Illinois of the past.  This veteran unit got to Todd Boeckman mentally and physically last year and they will be ready to repeat the performance.  Boeckman will need to keep his composure and lead the Buckeyes to victory.

Outcome:

    The Buckeyes will be riding an emotional high during the game.  The defense wants to prove that last year was a fluke and the offense wants to punch the Illini in the mouth.  Boeckman’s head needs to be on straight and Beanie needs to run like Eddie did in 1995.  If Boeckman struggles make note that Terrell Pryor will be the change of pace OSU needs to grind out a victory.  I think this one will get personal.