Illinois at Rutgers College Football: Everything You Need To Know

PISCATAWAY, N.J. - Rutgers may have one more win than Illinois, but, while the Illini’s season has been highly unimpressive, it’s been better than the Scarlet Knights’, considering Rutgers has been outscored in its last two games by Big Ten powers Ohio State and Michigan 136-0. The most recent loss to the Wolverines was extremely discouraging for the Scarlet Knights as Michigan held Rutgers to 39 total yards and 2 first downs. Quarterback Chris Laviano only completed one pass (on eight attempts) for six yards in the bludgeoning.

Illinois’ 34-31 overtime loss to Purdue on Saturday was much less embarrassing, but still frustrating nonetheless. It was the Illini’s fourth-straight defeat after opening the year with a 52-3 victory over Murray State. Illinois allowed the Boilermakers to accumulate 459 yards of offense, including 231 on the ground. In the four losses, the Illini have allowed an average of 36 points per game.

Against Purdue, sophomore Chayce Crouch replaced starting quarterback Wes Lunt, who was knocked out of the game. Crouch performed admirably, as he was 10 for 14 for 142 yards. He did not throw a touchdown. More impressively, Crouch carried the ball 17 times for 137 yards and 2 touchdowns, leading the team. As of presstime, Illinois coach Lovie Smith is uncertain which quarterback will take on Rutgers.

Kickoff time: 11 a.m.. CT
TV and radio: ESPN News, Local listings
Point spread: Illinois is favored by 6 points, according to scores and odds.
Tickets: Tickets are available at the Rutgers website.