Another week, another pair of CFB opponents are ready to slide under each other’s skin. The Rutgers Scarlet Knights set sight to host the Illinois Fighting Illini at Piscataway in another exciting big noon kickoff. Rutgers had some ego boost with two big wins under their belt, but that doesn’t mean they will make it any easier. Illinois, sitting at 7-3, heads to week 13 as a slim favorite by a single point. So, the last thing you can expect from the match is a lopsided showdown. It is going to be a ‘sweat till the clocks run out game’ for both the big power football programs. Now, if you are feeling all ears for the on-field commentary of the high-voltage game, we have some interesting names for you.

Illinois has been on quite a tear throughout the season, landing at No. 25 in the third CFP rankings of the 12-team playoff. Despite not making headlines like the Big 10 frontrunners, The Illinois College Blueboys are chasing their kind of record. They will look to rack up eight wins for the second time in three seasons and inch closer to its first nine-win season since 2007. The streak started with a four-game win, including a breathtaking showdown against Penn State. But a mid-season slump got the better of him and they dropped it thrice for the last four matches. Saturday’s show might not do a lot of hell and difference into the current roster setting, but the game will provide them with a lot of closures on their respective strengths and weaknesses. Andrew Siciliano, and Michael Robinson, will call the game with all their passion and grit.

Illinois vs Rutgers Prediction, Game Preview, and Betting Lines

Preview of the Illinois vs Rutgers matchup with the CFN prediction, why each team will win, and betting lines for the Week 13 game.https://t.co/JVePdmKmqH

— College Football News (@ColFootballNews) November 20, 2024

If you even imagine the match going pretty boring, the sensational touch of a renowned announcer duo will still keep you on the edge of your seat. They have a well-documented history together of taking the announcer’s table to the fire when a prized QB posts his first touchdown after a painful comeback. The aura of the stadium feels different when it has the Siciliano-Robinson duo in it.

However, putting aside the sportscasters’ slew, let’s just catch The Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano’s headspace ahead of a crucial weekend fight.

The Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano knows what Illioni’s offense can do

The Rutgers surpassed a huge transition over the last few years before the quality addition of Running back Kyle Monangai, linebacker Tyreem Powell, defensive end Aaron Lewis and many more changed the course of the event outright. From arguably the worst the worst Power 5 football program in America to clinch a bowl eligibility, this is quite a journey.

The veteran coach sees and studies what the opponents lack and will surely find a way to gently exploit or just make the boys aware of their mental background.

”They lost their lead dog, and now they’re doing it by the committee and they’re being effective the way they’re doing it,” Schiano addressed the lead back Kaden Feagin’s season-ending injury. But he knows even without Feagin the team has enough strength to deliver.

”I think that all goes back to their offensive line. They have got a legitimate offensive line and it allows them to run the football.” the veteran coach sang praise to the Illoni offense. 

However, it remains to be seen whether week 13 treats Illioni with a smile or with a slap, adding to their mediocre season.