Illinois (4-0-0) at Penn State (3-0-0)
- When: Sep 28 2024, 7:30 PM
- Where: Beaver Stadium, University Park, PA
- Where to watch: NBC
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Illinois (#19) @ Penn State (#9)
Moneyline
Illinois (#19) +625
Penn State (#9) -1000
Illinois (#19) @ Penn State (#9)
Point Spread
Illinois (#19) 17.5 (EVEN)
Penn State (#9) -17.5 (-120)
Illinois (#19) @ Penn State (#9)
Total
Over 47.5 (-110)
Under 47.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Passing Team Leaders:
Illinois: Luke Altmyer 862 Yds
Penn State: Drew Allar 729 Yds
Team Stats
| Illinois | Penn State | |
| 4-0 | Record | 3-0 |
| 1-0 | Away & Home | 2-0 |
| 3-0-1 | ATS | 2-1-0 |
| 1-3-0 | O/U | 1-2-0 |
Last Matchup:
Penn State 30-13, September 16th, 2023
Game Preview
It’s not surprising to see No. 9 Penn State off to a 3-0 start as they enter Big Ten play. However, Illinois’s unexpected 4-0 start and No. 19 ranking in this week’s Associated Press poll likely caught many off guard just a month ago.
This makes Saturday night’s matchup in State College, Pa., a significant game, especially for the Fighting Illini. After a 31-24 overtime victory at Nebraska to kick off their conference season, Illinois aims to take down one of the preseason favorites.
"When you enter Big Ten play, it’s a different level, and Illinois has done a great job," said Nittany Lions coach James Franklin. "They’re a tough team, and their quarterback is playing exceptionally well."
Luke Altmyer is a key factor in Illinois exceeding expectations, having thrown for 10 touchdowns in four games after only managing 13 last season. More importantly, he has not thrown an interception in 105 attempts this year, a significant improvement from last season when he was picked off 10 times.
With a completion rate of 71.4 percent and improved yards per attempt, combined with a balanced rushing attack and a solid defense reminiscent of their successful two years ago, fourth-year coach Bret Bielema has reason to be optimistic.
"Defensively, we improve as the game progresses," Bielema noted.
An example of this was their performance at Nebraska, where after Altmyer’s go-ahead touchdown in overtime, the defense sacked Dylan Raiola on first, second, and fourth down to secure the win.
Now, Illinois faces a tougher challenge. Penn State’s offense has shown significant improvement, featuring big plays alongside another strong defensive effort. Last week, they shut out Kent State 56-0, allowing just 66 total yards.
New offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki emphasized creating more explosive plays, and that’s exactly what has transpired. Quarterback Drew Allar is averaging an impressive 17.8 yards per completion, while running back Nicholas Singleton boasts 8.5 yards per rush, totaling 314 yards and two touchdowns.
"The quarterback’s ability to progress is dependent on how well we perform up front," Franklin stated. "That’s crucial for him to utilize the entire field."
Franklin acknowledged that Illinois’s pass rush poses a concern. The Illini will need to apply pressure on Allar, who has talented receivers, including tight end Tyler Warren, projected to catch 64 passes, and wideouts Omari Evans and Harrison Wallace, who average nearly 22 yards per catch.
This marks Illinois’s first visit to Beaver Stadium since their historic nine-overtime victory in 2021, capped by a two-point conversion pass from Brandon Peters to Casey Washington. Penn State leads the all-time series 21-6, having won last year’s matchup in Champaign 30-13.
NCAA Football Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Penn State 30-17
Expert Pick: Illinois +17½ (+100) & Under 47½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $382
- NCAAF Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
