When: 9-3-2011, 3:30 PM EST
Where: Champaign, IL
TV: Big Ten NetworkWhere: Champaign, IL
Arkansas State Illinois
2010 Record: 4-8 7-6
Ended Season: Regular Season, No Bowl Won Bowl
Points Scored Average: 30.0 32.5
Points Allowed Average: 30.8 23.5
Total Offense Per Game: 403.4 397.1
Passing YPG: 254.8 151.0
Rushing YPG: 148.7 246.1
Overall Breakdown: For a team with a 4-8 record, the Red Wolves of Arkansas State were within striking distance in nearly every loss of 2010. The defense was a letdown as it gave up over 30 points per game including at least 30+ points in every loss of 2010. Every time the Red Wolves held a team under 30, they won the game. If the defense can find a way to force a few more turnovers and make the games less of a shootout and more of a possession battle, ASU may find enough wins to be bowl eligible in 2011. Illinois have replaced traditional rival Missouri in the season opener with Arkansas State and many fans are not happy about it. It seems like the Illini are weakening the out of conference schedule to counteract a very tough Big 10 slate. Illinois had a good offense that scored just over 32 points per game while allowing 23.5 per game in 2010. Take away a crazy 3 OT game versus Michigan in which they gave up 67 points and that 23.5 drops even lower. Illinois is looking to make a push for the Big 10 title and while they might not have the weapons to win it, they are going to give the top teams in the conference a battle. Overall, a strong defense from Illinois and an unpredictable offense from Arkansas State should make for an entertaining game that will be closer than many expect but the Illini should be able to pull out in the second half.
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