It's game day! Could got soggy today in Ross-Ade Stadium in the battle for the Cannon, one of the most inconspicuous trophies in college football. Wet conditions may benefit Purdue. Maybe Illini defenders will slip trying to cover Boiler wideouts. And Illinois' ground game may not get track on a slick surface.
Three keys to victory.
1. Find David Bell. Pretty simple, huh? The true freshman has been on fire in recent weeks. Throw him the ball early often. He has been the Big Ten Freshman of the Week each of the last two weeks. In the last four games, Bell has 33 receptions for 505 yards (15.3 ypc) and three TDs. He is averaging 126.3 yards per game over that stretch.
2. Stuff the run. Purdue must commit to slowing down the Illini rushing attack. It’s the strong part of the Illinois offense. If the Boilermakers can do that, it would put the game into the lap of Illini quarterback Brandon Peters. Can he win the game for Illinois with his right arm? Probably not.
3. Win the turnover battle. Need to do this each game. Could get sloppy today. Ball could get slippery. Wisconsin didn’t win the TO battle vs. Illinois last week … and the Badgers lost. Jack Plummer has done a pretty good job protecting the ball. That must continue vs. an Illini defense that is average at best.
Picks to click
Offense
TE Brycen Hopkins. His dad played for Illinois (Brad) and Brycen was recruited by the Illini—but not offered a scholarship. Look for Brycen to shine with 8-10 catches with Illinois focused on David Bell.
Defense
CB Cory Trice. The redshirt freshman had a tough game last week. Look for him to bounce back, as Illinois tries to go after him … and fails.
What are your keys today? Who are your picks to click?
