No. 20 Wisconsin vs. Illinois: A Battle of Old and New in a Complex Rivalry

When No. 20 Wisconsin (5-3, 3-2 Big Ten) takes on Illinois (7-1, 4-1) on Saturday, October 29, it will be more than just a football game. It will be a clash of two different worlds, a battle of old and new in a rivalry that is one of the most complex in college football.

A Rivalry with a Rich History

The Wisconsin-Illinois rivalry dates back to 1892, and it has been played almost every year since then. The two schools are located just a few hours apart, and they have a long history of competing against each other in a variety of sports.

In recent years, the rivalry has been dominated by Wisconsin. The Badgers have won the last nine meetings between the two schools, including a 45-7 victory in 2021. However, Illinois is coming into this year’s game with a lot of momentum. The Illini are 7-1 this season, and they are ranked No. 17 in the College Football Playoff rankings.

Different Philosophies, Similar Goals

Wisconsin and Illinois are two very different football teams. The Badgers are known for their physical style of play, while the Illini are more of a pass-happy offense. However, both teams have the same goal: to win the Big Ten West Division and reach the conference championship game.

Wisconsin’s offense is led by running back Braelon Allen, who is one of the best running backs in the country. The Badgers also have a strong offensive line, which helps them control the tempo of the game.

Illinois’ offense is led by quarterback Tommy DeVito, who is a transfer from Syracuse. DeVito is a dynamic playmaker who can make plays with his arm and his legs. The Illini also have a talented group of receivers, led by Isaiah Williams and Casey Washington.

Key Matchups

There are several key matchups that will determine the outcome of this game.

1. Wisconsin’s running game vs. Illinois’ run defense: Wisconsin’s running game is one of the best in the country, but Illinois’ run defense is one of the best in the Big Ten. This matchup will be a battle of strength against strength.
2. Illinois’ passing game vs. Wisconsin’s pass defense: Illinois’ passing game is one of the most dynamic in the country, but Wisconsin’s pass defense is one of the best in the Big Ten. This matchup will be a battle of skill against skill.
3. Wisconsin’s offensive line vs. Illinois’ defensive line: Wisconsin’s offensive line is one of the most experienced in the country, but Illinois’ defensive line is one of the most talented in the Big Ten. This matchup will be a battle of experience against youth.

Prediction

This is a tough game to pick, but I think Wisconsin will win a close one. The Badgers have more experience, and they are playing at home. Illinois is a good team, but I think Wisconsin’s physical style of play will be too much for them to handle.

Conclusion

The Wisconsin-Illinois rivalry is one of the most complex in college football. The two schools have a long history of competing against each other, and they have very different philosophies. However, they both have the same goal: to win the Big Ten West Division and reach the conference championship game.

This year’s game is shaping up to be a classic. Wisconsin is a physical team with a strong running game, while Illinois is a pass-happy offense with a lot of talented playmakers.

I think Wisconsin will win a close game, but Illinois is a good team, and they could easily pull off the upset.