Penn State running backs Bill Belton and Zach Zwinak vs. Illinois front four

The last time the Illini defense did not allow more than 100 yards rushing was in Week 1. Since then, the defense has surrendered an average of 244.8 rushing yards per game. Penn State will be looking to use its running back tandem to establish the ground game against the No. 103 defense in the country and a defensive line that stepped up its pressure last week but was eventually worn down by the Michigan State ground game.

Allen Robinson vs. Illinois secondary

Robinson has 55 receptions for 868 yards and nine touchdowns on the year. The junior has had only two games in which he did not pass the century mark in receiving yards.  Even if V’Angelo Bentely plays, expect Nittany Lions quarterback Chrisitan Hackenberg to look Robinson’s way early and often against an embattled secondary. The secondary will have an even tougher time if Penn State is effectively running the ball, thus opening up the play-action game for Hackenberg.

Penn State defense vs. struggling Illinois offense

The Illini are coming off their worst outing of the year in which they only scored only three points and had fewer than 300 yards of total offense. The good news is Penn State is vulnerable. The Nittany Lions just allowed 63 points, the most since 1900. Penn State is vulnerable to high-tempo spread attacks. Offensive coordinator Bill Cubit has dabbled with the fast pace at times. The bad news is the Illini will be facing an angry Nittany Lions defense that will be looking to make up for last week. Nathan Scheelhaase will also need to find a new target after Ryan Lankford’s season-ending injury.

Erik can be reached at [email protected] and @e_prada.