The Nebraska Cornhuskers and Illinois Fighting Illini will square off in a showdown between Big Ten programs on Friday. Not only are both teams 3-0 coming into this game, but it’s a top-25 matchup with the Huskers ranked No. 22 and the Illini at No. 24 in the AP Top 25 poll.
Illinois is off to a strong start in 2024, and it already has a nice win over Kansas on its resume. Last week, the Fighting Illini took care of Central Michigan, 30-9, and quarterback Luke Altmyer turned in another clean performance. He completed 19 of his 29 passes for 242 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
Through his first three games of the season, Altmyer has connected on 69.2% of his throws for 647 yards, six touchdowns and zero interceptions. His relatively blemish-free start will be tested against a tough Nebraska defense this weekend.
In his second season on the job, Nebraska coach Matt Rhule seems to have things back on track in Lincoln. The Huskers are 3-0, and former five-star recruit Dylan Raiola is leading the way. In his first three career starts, Raiola has shown why he was so highly ranked, completing 73.8% of his throws for 670 yards, five touchdowns and just one interception.
As well as Raiola has played, the Huskers defense has been driving a lot of this early success too. They’ve allowed just 6.7 points and 255.3 yards per game thus far.
Where to watch Nebraska vs. Illinois
- When: Friday, Sept. 20 at 8 p.m. ET
- Where: Tom Osborne Field at Memorial Stadium — Lincoln, Nebraska
- TV: FOX
- Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
Save $30 on your first month of Fubo! For a limited time, you can get your first month of Fubo for as low as $49.99. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC and 200+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.
Nebraska vs. Illinois spread, odds
In this conference-opener for both sides, Nebraska is a comfortable 9-point favorite against Illinois, according to the SportsLine consensus. The oddsmakers aren’t expecting too many offensive fireworks with the over/under at 43.5 points.
Nebraska vs. Illinois series history
Nebraska owns a 14-6-1 record against Illinois in a series that dates back to 1892.
- Oct. 6, 2023 — Nebraska 20, Illinois 7
- Oct. 29, 2022 — Illinois 26, Nebraska 9
- Aug. 28, 2021 — Illinois 30, Nebraska 22
- Nov. 21, 2020 — Illinois 41, Nebraska 23
- Sept. 21, 2019 — Nebraska 42, Illinois 38
