Nebraska Hosts Illinois in Big Ten Opener

No. 24 Illinois will face No. 22 Nebraska in a highly anticipated Big Ten matchup on Friday, marking Illinois' first ranked vs. ranked game since 2008 and Nebraska's first since 2013. Both teams come into the game with 3-0 records, with Illinois' defense allowing only 8.6 points per game and Nebraska's offense led by promising freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola. Illinois head coach Bret Bielema and Nebraska's Matt Rhule have mutual respect, with Bielema praising Rhule's fundamental approach and integration of former legends into the program. Nebraska will be celebrating its 400th consecutive home sellout, adding extra significance to the game. The winner will likely move up in the rankings and gain a crucial edge in Big Ten play.