Week 2 of college football gets started with a ranked Big Ten-ACC matchup as No. 11 Illinois plays Duke on Saturday at Wallace Wade Stadium. Illini rolled in Week 1 behind the depth of their roster, and Tulane transfer Darian Mensah started his new chapter at Duke with a win over Elon. As the betting lines narrow, this non-conference match might determine the course of the two teams in September.
Illinois vs. Duke Key Players to Watch
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Quarterback Luke Altmyer leads the Fighting Illini, who opened the season with an explosive ground game. Wideout Aidan Laughery had 101 yards, 2 TD, and WR Kaden Feagin tacked on another 74 yards with a touchdown. Defensively, EDGE Gabe Jacas leads a front that crushed in Week 1, one of two deep rotating units that did not drop off. Look to Bielema to lean on tempo and front-seven pressure in this opener.
Darian Mensah who came with splashy NIL headlines, produced 389 yards and 3 TDs in his debut game. WR Sahmir Hagans caught two of the touchdowns, and WR Cooper Barkate should be another threat after his 117-yard performance. On the other side, Manny Diaz will look to test pressure looks that are designed to disrupt the Illinois offense.
Illinois vs. Duke Odds and Betting Lines
Throughout the week, the lines have been around Illinois-3 to Illinois-3.5. The money line has Illinois at -153 to Duke +126, and the total is at 49.5. The market seems split, although a few of the outlets, including Fox Sports, are giving Illinois a one-score advantage in a game.
Picks and Predictions for Illinois vs Duke
The Fighting Illini bring a two-back rotation on offense and a solid defensive front that should keep the pocket compressed. With that in mind, Duke and Mensah will likely have to throw the ball if they want to win this game. The real issue for the Blue Devils is going to be the clock. Based on Week 1, Illinois should try to keep this one on the ground on the road, which could also be effective in limiting how much time the Duke offense will get.
The Illini should be able to win the battle when their offense is on the field and will only need their defense to limit the Duke offense. If the Illini can confine the Duke passing game, the Illini should be able to take care of business.
Best Bet: Illinois -3
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