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UI-Penn State matchups, courtesy Bob Asmussen

QUARTERBACKS

Illinois. Juice Williams hasn't been as efficient as Darryl Clark, but he has been a much bigger threat as a runner and has more passing yards in one fewer game. Plus, the Penn State competition has been underwhelming.

RUNNING BACKS

Penn State. The Nittany Lions lead the Big Ten in rushing yards and touchdowns. Evan Royster and Stephfon Green are averaging 8.1 and 7.3 yards per carry, respectively. That will work.

RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS

Penn State. Look for the Illini to get the ball to Arrelious Benn early and often. The sophomore played the best game of his young career against the Nittany Lions in 2007.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Penn State. It's a close call. Both sides have shown they can run block. And both sides are doing a great job protecting their quarterbacks. But Penn State has allowed just three sacks in four games.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Penn State. The Nittany Lions are among the national leaders in rushing defense, total defense and sacks. It's starts with the guys up front, who are putting on great pressure.

LINEBACKERS

Illinois. Brit Miller leads the Big Ten and is tied for third nationally in tackles. Martez Wilson is tied for sixth in the league tackle race. The Illini seem to be figuring out their roles. The Nittany Lions miss Sean Lee.

SECONDARY

Penn State. Vontae Davis is the best cornerback in the league, but the Nittany Lions have three times as many interceptions (seven) as touchdowns allowed (two).

SPECIAL TEAMS

Penn State. Illinois is last in the conference in kickoff coverage. The Nittany Lions are third in the country in kickoff returns. Not a good combination for Ron Zook's crew.

COACHING

Penn State. Doesn't matter how much he is actually doing on the field or at practice, Joe Paterno has 337 more wins than Ron Zook. Plus, he appears to have loosened up the offense a bit.

PREDICTION

Penn State. It's too much to ask the Illini to repeat 2007's breakthrough win against the Nittany Lions. With a fired up crowd, Penn State will get off to a good start and hold on for a 28-24 victory (N-G record: 3-0).

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