HQ prediction: Northwestern 35-24

Beat writer Bob Asmussen breaks down Saturday's football game in Evanston.

QUARTERBACKS

Illinois

While Juice Williams has been throwing too many interceptions in recent games, he still has more touchdowns than picks. That isn't the case for Northwestern starter C.J. Bacher, who has 13 interceptions and 12 touchdowns. You might see Williams run more in this game, which increases the advantage.

RUNNING BACKS

Illinois

If Tyrell Sutton was available, the Wildcats might get the checkmark. But with Sutton and backup Omar Conteh out because of injuries, Northwestern turns to diminutive sophomore Stephen Simmons, who has just 109 yards this season.

RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS

Northwestern

Arrelious Benn has topped 1,000 yards for the season and is a force for the Illini. But the Wildcats have three guys with 39 or more catches, led by Ross Lane. The No. 2 receiver for the Illini is running back Daniel Dufrene.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Northwestern

It's another close call, but the Wildcats have done a better job protecting quarterbacks Bacher and Mike Kafka. Illini will be challenged by Northwestern's defensive front. If they can push the Wildcats back a bit, it will be a good day for the Illinois running backs.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Illinois

Give Will Davis, Derek Walker and pals a small edge. But Northwestern's Corey Wootton is playing at an All-American level. Seniors John Gill and Kevin Mims will provide extra pressure, making it difficult for the Illini to concentrate on Wootton.

LINEBACKERS

Illinois

Brit Miller needs 23 tackles to move into the top 10 single-season list at Illinois. While it's a long shot, the Decatur Eisenhower product will put every bit of effort into what could be his final game. Count on Miller to try to disrupt Bacher with blitzes. He is tied for the team lead with six sacks.

SECONDARY

Illinois

The Wildcats have allowed fewer touchdowns than the Illini, but have allowed more yards. Vontae Davis might be playing for the final time as an Illini. He leads the team in passes defended and is third in tackles. A bad sign for the Wildcats: safety Brad Phillips leads the team in tackles.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Northwestern

Here's where home-field advantage pays off for the Wildcats, who are used to the turf and the Evanston winds. Matt Eller has been solid in his first year for the Illini, but the punting continues to be a problem. That showed in Ohio State's game turning blocked punt last Saturday.

COACHING

Northwestern

It looks like Pat Fitzgerald made a wise choice when he hired former Wisconsin, Colorado, Arizona defensive coordinator Mike Hankwitz. Fitzgerald is one of the young stars of college coaching who would be considered for a move up if he wasn't at his alma mater.

PREDICTION

Northwestern

A week after giving the Illibuck back to Ohio State, the Illini will have to turn over the Sweet Sioux Tomahawk too. Bacher will get the Wildcats started with an early touchdown pass and Northwestern will knock the Illini out of the postseason with a 35-24 victory (N-G record: 8-3).

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