Game 5- #2 Ohio State (4-0) @ Illinois Fighting Illini (2-1)

Where: Ohio Stadium
When: Noon EST
TV: Big Ten Network

After a 73-20 victory over Eastern Michigan, the two main topics of conversation revolved around how great the offense is so far this season and how many points the defense gave up against the winless Eagles from the MAC. I completely agree about both points, but what about the way the defense played against Miami and the teams not named Eastern Michigan? They will be fine... no, more than fine actually because they will be great. Both the defense and offense are ranked in the top ten in the nation, so I'd say things are pretty good right now. Now, finally, it is off to the Big Ten schedule.

This isn't what you would necessarily call a "thrilling" conference opener, but it is on the road and against a familiar opponent, nonetheless. It is always a good feeling when October rolls around and it is time to prepare for Big Ten foes each and every week. The first two games, Saturday at Illinois and Indiana, can be excused from the schedule please. These should both result in victories whether they look pretty or not. The real fun begins October 16th at Wisconsin, with three of the final five games after that coming against current top 25 teams. It will be a lot of fun this season in the Big Ten (soon to be a member larger with Nebraska joining), and it all kicks off Saturday in Champaign.

There isn't much to say... Illinois will try to run the ball with their backfield of QB Nate Scheelhaase and RB Mike Leshoure in order to set up a more easy-going passing attack in hopes that they can shock the #2 and unbeaten Buckeyes. I highly doubt that happens, and OSU will win this game.

Illinois will commit at least three turnovers, with OSU scoring on each of them to run up the score in what will otherwise be a snoozefest. Pryor will have at least one score on the ground to complement a couple throws into the endzone, which should open up the running game for Boom, Saine and the younger Hall and Berry. I'll call for a comfortable - if not sexy - win over Illinois. Bring on Indiana!!!! (SIGH)


Prediction:

Ohio State- 41
Illinois- 13