Staff Picks: Predicting Indiana's Week 4 clash with Illinois

The nonconference portion of the schedule is over. Now begins Big Ten play, as No. 9 Illinois visits Bloomington for a Saturday night clash under the lights.

Each week throughout the season, our staff will break down the upcoming matchup and make their predictions on how things will play out. From big-picture storylines to score forecasts, our weekly picks aim to give fans a snapshot of expectations heading into game day.

This week, the focus is squarely on the Hoosiers’ ranked battle with the Illini — a chance to prove that a repeat trip to the College Football Playoff is on the table for Curt Cignetti’s bunch.

Zach’s Pick

I think this game will be close, and whichever team wins, I don’t believe either fanbase will view it as an upset. I think both teams truly believe they are better than the other, but the home field tilts this one toward Indiana. Luke Altmyer is not much of a threat with his legs, which is important given Indiana’s struggles against mobile quarterbacks. Combine that with what I believe is an advantage for Indiana up front, and I see the Hoosiers edging it out.

Prediction: Indiana 31, Illinois 20

Alec’s Pick

It’s evident what this game means in the landscape of college football. A potential play in game for the college football playoff and two teams that have high goals this year. IU’s offense is starting to click and the expected absence of All-Big Ten corner in Xavier Scott should open things up more for someone like Omar Cooper. But, the line of scrimmage should determine this one. Illinois has struggled with pressure early in the season, and in the run game. IU’s front seven has been disruptive, leading the Big Ten in tackles for loss. If Indiana can force Illinois into more of a one-dimensional passing attack and force Luke Altmyer to play from behind and outside of the pocket, it could be an issue for the Illini. This being in Bloomington — I think Indiana holds on in a close one.

Prediction: Indiana 27, Illinois 17

Colin’s Pick

The week we’ve all been waiting for is finally here. It’s only the fourth game of the 2025 season for both Indiana and Illinois, but this matchup has a playoff feel to it. That’s no coincidence, as whoever comes away with the victory has a clear path to the postseason, while the loser will end up needing to play incredibly well down the stretch to have a shot at making the CFP. Indiana gets this one at home, which I think carries incredible importance. With a primetime 7:30 kickoff, a red out crowd and a stadium that is sure to be filled with anticipation, I think Hoosier nation will prove to be to much for the Illinois to handle. Look for Fernando Mendoza to have an exceptional game, but more so watch out for the dynamic duo of Elijah Sarratt and Omar Cooper Jr. I think the offense plays up to its standard, with both the passing and running games firing on all cylinders. It’ll be more of a high scoring than many anticipate, but I have the Hoosiers winning and stirring up momentum that could lead to a second consecutive College Football Playoff berth.

Prediction: Indiana 38, Illinois 24

Kyler’s Pick

Well, here we go! The game that has been circled as THE game for both Indiana and Illinois. A top 25 matchup, this game will go a long way in which team will have a legit crack at making the College Football Playoffs. To me, this matchup is a battle that will be determined by toughness and discipline. Both teams will be wanting to make the other adapt to their style of play but ultimately I think this game comes down to who makes the right plays at the right time. Indiana’s schedule has not challenged them up to this point whereas Illinois has a road win at Duke already on their resume. Memorial Stadium is going to be rocking and that gives Indiana the advantage there. I think Cig and the boys are prepared and know what is at stake here. Give me the Hoosiers to win this one by double digits and prove that they are here to stay and deserve respect from the entire college football landscape.

Prediction: Indiana 24, Illinois 14

Drew’s Pick

The game we have all been waiting for is finally here. All offseason, we circled this as the biggest game of the season for Indiana. The Hoosiers took care of their non-conference schedule without issue, but how ready are they for the Fighting Illini? On paper, these teams appear to be equally matched, with both veteran quarterbacks having a good start to the season while posting very similar numbers. I think homefield advantage is going to play a massive role on Saturday night. Indiana saw firsthand last year how much it matters for big games, and I think they will feed off of the crowd’s energy on Saturday night. This game will be a defining point in both teams’ season, and I think Curt Cignetti will have the Hoosiers ready to take the fight to Illinois in what should be an exciting matchup.

Prediction: Indiana 31, Illinois 27

Coach Griff’s Pick

This matchup has the feel of a classic Big Ten grinder where every possession matters. Indiana’s offense is putting up nearly 600 yards per game, powered by a rushing attack over 300 yards per outing, but Illinois has the defensive chops to slow that pace. The Illini are giving up just 268 yards per contest and have been strong on third downs, while their offense averages more than 400 yards and 45 points per game. That balance makes them dangerous, especially if they can force Indiana into long-yardage situations. Both teams have strengths that directly challenge the other: Indiana’s ground game versus Illinois’ disciplined front seven, and Illinois’ efficient passing and third-down conversions against a Hoosier defense built to disrupt rhythm. This one likely comes down to turnovers and who executes in the fourth quarter. Expect a tight game with momentum swings on both sides. Illinois has enough firepower to keep it close deep into the second half, but Indiana’s ability to control tempo and finish drives at home gives them the slightest edge.

Prediction: Indiana 27, Illinois 20

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