Wisconsin junior quarterback Dustin Sherer had his first start as a Badger last weekend at Iowa. He completed 17-of-34 passes for 161 yards with two interceptions in Wisconsin’s 38-16 loss, which put it at 0-4 in Big Ten play. On Saturday against the Illini, Sherer will again replace former starter Allan Evridge.

But if the Illinois secondary plays like it has against Wisconsin, it may just beat Sherer and the Badgers on their Homecoming weekend. In 2006, the last time the Illini visited Madison, safety Travon Bellamy had a 41-yard interception return for a touchdown. And last season, cornerback Vontae Davis intercepted a pass from Tyler Donovan in the fourth quarter to lead the Illini to an upset victory against then-No. 5 Wisconsin. The Illini have forced 13 turnovers so far this season – three interceptions and 10 fumbles.

Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema has yet to commit to Sherer as the starter for the remainder of the season. And if the Illini have any say in the matter, he won’t be after Saturday.

By Stuart Lieberman