Week 7 features a true Big Ten clash of heavyweights and contrasting storylines. #5 Ohio State has been nearly flawless under coach Dcanady1, rolling to a 5-0 start and dominating both sides of the ball. Meanwhile, Illinois, coached by the equally accomplished Mjkemp15, sits at 2-2 but has faced one of the nation’s toughest schedules — LSU, Texas, and USC already on the docket.
This is the kind of matchup where pedigree meets opportunity: Ohio State fighting to stay undefeated and cement its playoff resume, while Illinois looks to pull a massive upset and announce themselves as a Big Ten contender.
Ohio State Buckeyes Outlook
The Buckeyes have been machine-like this season, averaging 44.4 PPG while giving up just 32.8 PPG. Their balance is unmatched:
QB Julian Sayin has been sensational, completing 76 of 99 passes for 1,329 yards, 9 TDs, and just 2 INTs. His efficiency (over 76% completion) has kept the offense humming.
RB James Peoples is the touchdown machine of the NDL so far. With 681 rushing yards and 12 TDs on just 62 carries, he’s averaging nearly 11 yards per carry with four 20+ yard runs.
WR Jeremiah Smith has been Sayin’s go-to target, posting 30 catches for 532 yards and 6 TDs. His blend of size and speed makes him a nightmare for secondaries.
The Buckeye defense is equally stout, led by a 92-rated unit that has clamped down in the second half of games (allowing just 3.5 points in the 4th quarter). With such balance, Ohio State looks every bit like a playoff team.
Illinois Fighting Illini Outlook
Illinois comes into this game with a deceiving 2-2 record. Losses to top-ranked #2 LSU and #1 Texas show the brutal path Mjkemp15 has scheduled, but the Illini have also proven they can bounce back with convincing wins.
QB Luke Altmyer has been outstanding — 1,338 passing yards, 10 TDs, and just 1 INT while completing over 84% of his throws. If Illinois is going to compete, it starts with his precision passing.
RB Aidan Laughery has been equally important, rushing for 592 yards and 5 TDs while showing big-play ability (90-yard long run, seven 20+ gains already).
WR Hudson Clement has emerged as a reliable weapon with 30 catches, 450 yards, and 5 TDs — giving Illinois a balanced attack capable of testing even Ohio State’s elite defense.
Defensively, Illinois has been vulnerable, giving up 30 PPG and struggling to slow down high-powered offenses. But their ability to control tempo offensively, especially with Laughery on the ground, will be crucial.
Key Matchups to Watch
Peoples vs. Illini Front Seven: Ohio State’s star RB has been unstoppable — Illinois must find a way to slow him down or risk falling behind early.
Altmyer’s Efficiency vs. Buckeye Defense: Altmyer has been nearly perfect with ball security. If he can maintain that against OSU’s 92-rated defense, Illinois could hang around.
Red Zone Execution: Ohio State thrives at finishing drives (Sayin and Peoples have combined for 21 TDs). Illinois can’t settle for field goals if they want to pull the upset.
Coaching Battle
Dcanady1 has been on a tear the last five seasons, racking up multiple 10+ win campaigns and three conference titles. His resume includes stints at Ball State, Colorado, and Alabama — all of which ended in double-digit wins and hardware. His teams are disciplined, physical, and rarely beat themselves.
Mjkemp15 is no stranger to success either. From UTEP to Missouri, his squads are always competitive. With an impressive 63-13 overall record, he knows how to build winners. This Illinois team is still finding its identity, but his coaching pedigree means they won’t back down.
This is a matchup between two of the NDL’s sharpest minds.
Prediction
On paper, Ohio State has the clear edge in talent and depth, but context matters. Illinois has only lost to the #1 and #2 ranked teams this season, and playing at home gives them a crucial boost. Altmyer’s precision passing and Laughery’s explosive running provide enough firepower to keep pace, while Mjkemp15’s proven coaching chops could tilt a tight game late.
The Buckeyes are a powerhouse, but this is the perfect trap spot — on the road, against a battle-tested Illini squad hungry for respect.
Projected Score: Illinois 34, Ohio State 31
The Illini shock the NDL world at home, notching one of the biggest wins of Season 33 and handing the Buckeyes their first loss.
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