Illinois (6-3, 3-3) is back at Memorial Stadium this Saturday against Michigan State (4-5, 2-4). With recent losses to Oregon and Minnesota, this week’s game is an opportunity for the Illini to turn a page. 

A lot is at stake for the Illini this Saturday. Their matchup is more than just another chance to win, and a domino effect of events will happen following the final whistle. With the rest of the season hanging in the air, there are things to keep in mind as the Illini prepare for Saturday.

With a win: Even with the Illini projected to win this game, they must learn from their mistakes. The Illini started undefeated at 4-0, beating ranked competitors at home and on the road. Things took a downward turn for the Illini as they entered the last half of their season. Now, it has been almost a month since their last win. 

But wins are still attainable, and no matter what, the Illini are headed to a bowl game. A win for the Illini Saturday means a boost in their rankings as they currently sit in the No. 7 spot for conference rankings but are unranked and out of the AP top 25.

Junior quarterback Luke Altmyer has been in a slight slump the past few weeks. However, now is the perfect time for him to show the second-year confidence and leadership that has been preached all season. If Altmyer can direct his squad well, run some yards and accurately spot his targets, this should be smooth sailing for the Illini.

With a loss: Chances are, if the Illini lose this game, the rest of their season could fall into shambles. A loss on Saturday would mean their third loss in a row. The Illini are already projected to lose against the Scarlet Knights next week. A defeat would plummet their rankings and record further down. More than rankings, the team needs a morale boost. A loss on their home turf would do the opposite and bring out even more frustrations across the team.

November scaries: If the Illini encounter bad luck with this matchup, it might be their history with November battles. Both teams are on a two-loss streak and fresh off of bye-weeks. The Spartans are still on their hunt to be bowl-game eligible. If the Spartans can take advantage of the Illini’s lack of luck with November and running the ball, the Illini are in for a fight.

Junior running back Josh McCray is the leader for the Illini with rushing yards. His season total stands at 71 carries, 330 yards and four touchdowns. As for the Spartans, sixth-year running back Kay’Ron Lynch-Adams is an asset with 98 carries, 469 yards and two touchdowns this season.

If Lynch-Adams can get through Illinois’ defense, Michigan State will give Illinois a run for their money. Illinois’ lackluster run defense has given the team some issues this year. If its edge rushers can spot Michigan State’s routes well and attack sophomore quarterback Aidan Chiles from all sides, Illinois should leave in high spirits. 

Injuries: The Illini are already down two regular players, sophomore running back Kaden Feagin and junior linebacker Dylan Rosiek. They are in no position to lose anymore if they want to end the season on a high note. 

This also comes after senior wide receiver Pat Bryant suffered a concussion at the end of October and was seen wearing a walking boot following the Minnesota game.  Any more injuries to their lineup could be detrimental to the team’s success. There’s nothing worse than seeing a high-caliber player exiting the field after a hard hit, especially this late in the season. 

Senior day: Saturday is also the last time the seniors for the Illini will play at Memorial Stadium. Anyone who sees the Illini on the field can see it goes beyond teammates. The Illini have formed solid friendships and have built trust with one another. Both led to this winning season and bowl game qualification.  

Earlier in the week, senior defensive lineman TeRah Edwards spoke about his time at Illinois and how he cherishes his time as an Illini. 

“You make lifelong memories with the guys,” Edwards said. “I’m just enjoying it.” 

With the last game of the season and Senior Day, the energy at Memorial Stadium should be high. The athletic department suggests that anyone going to the game get to their seats 30 minutes before the start of the game for the recognition of the seniors and the Marching Illini performance. 

Kickoff is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. and will be available on Fox Sports 1.

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