Three reasons Illinois could hang with Ohio State

Ohio State is a huge favorite over Illinois. However, there are a few things that the Fighting Illini can use to stay with the Buckeyes.

Ohio State rolls into Champaign to take on Illinois this weekend. While just about everyone outside of Lovie Smith (we believe) thinks the Buckeyes will roll over Illinois, there are a few things that could trip Ohio Stae up on its path to victory. Ryan Day missing the game could hurt a little, but probably not enough to flip the tables.

The Fighting Illini have had an up and down season and with the confusion at quarterback, Lovie Smith has relied on a speedy defense. Let’s start there as we look at the three reasons Ohio State could have problems with the Illini.

NEXT … Speed on defense is Illinois’ hallmark…