Illinois Fighting Illini

No. 23 Wisconsin looks to get back on track, beat Illinois

Published Oct. 18, 2018 11:00 a.m. ET

Illinois (3-3, 1-2 Big Ten) at No. 23 Wisconsin (4-2, 2-1), noon ET (FS1).

Line: Wisconsin by 25.

Series record: Wisconsin leads 41-36-7.

WHAT'S AT STAKE?

After getting routed by Purdue at home, the Illini can gain some credibility back if they can keep it respectable at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin still controls its destiny in the Big Ten West despite a blowout loss last week at Michigan that dashed its playoff hopes. The Badgers can still earn a trip to the conference title game by winning their last six regular season games.

KEY MATCHUP

Illinois QB A.J. Bush vs. Wisconsin front seven. The Badgers have had trouble against running quarterbacks, and their secondary is hampered by injuries. The mobile Bush may have to wreak havoc in order for the Illini to have a chance at keeping the game close.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Illinois: Bush has rushed for three scores over two games since returning from a hamstring injury, including two touchdowns and 116 yards on 18 carries on Oct. 6 at Rutgers.

Wisconsin: QB Alex Hornibrook is coming off his worst game in his two seasons as the full-time starter going 7 of 20 for 100 yards with a score and two interceptions last week against Michigan. Illinois is tied for fifth in the FBS with 11 interceptions.

FACTS & FIGURES

Illinois has lost eight straight in the series, last winning in 2007. Illini last won in Madison in 2002. ... Illinois has forced a turnover in 20 straight games, the longest active streak among Power Five teams. The last time the Illini did not have a takeaway was in a 48-3 loss at Wisconsin on Nov. 12, 2016 at Wisconsin. ... Badgers had a season-high three sacks last week at Michigan, matching the previous three games combined. ... RB Jonathan Taylor's 158.3 yards per game is second in nation. Illinois has allowed 199.5 yards per game on ground, 13th in the 14-team Big Ten. ... Wisconsin has broken in 18 first-time starters this season, including four cornerbacks and three safeties.