5 keys to Friday's Illini-Cincinnati game

1

Will the Thanksgiving dinner slow down either team?

Maybe the Illini, who traveled from C-U early Thursday afternoon and had dinner together at their team hotel. Playing at home is always easier, especially when the team is on a roll like Cincinnati. Nothing new for them to have to get used to. Just get over to the stadium a couple hours before the game and go play.

2

Which Cincinnati quarterback does Illinois want to see more?

Easy, Tony Pike. The more mobile the quarterback, the more problem Illinois has stopping an opposing offfense. Terrelle Pryor and Daryll Clark did as much damage against Illinois with their legs as with their arms. And both teams led blowout victories against the Illini. So, if Brian Kelly wants to play Pike all day instead of Zach Collaros, the Illinois defense will likely. More likely, Pike and Collaros will split time, creating a game-plan problem for the Illini defense.

3

Will the stadium be full?

Absolutely. Though Nippert Stadium isn't the biggest building in Division I-A, the folks in Cincinnati have found their way to the place. Tickets are soldout and have been going for a hefty price on StubHub. Want a couple of seats near midfield for today's game? Be prepared to shell out three bills.

4

Can the Illini get effective play from the quarterback?

A lot depends on the health of Juice Williams, who missed the Northwestern game with a sprained ankle. Even if he's good to go, remember that he hasn't played since the first quarter of a game three weeks ago. There's a bit of rust. Backup Jacob Charest will be ready and is coming off of a good fourth quarter against Northwestern.

5

Who gets the bulk of the carries for Illinois?

Based on the way the first half went against Northwestern, you would say Mikel Leshoure. But the second half would tell you it will be Jason Ford. We'll go with the latter, who seems just a bit healthier than Leshoure. Give the Centennial product credit for playing through some pain. Whoever it is will have a challenge against the Cincinnati defense.