No. 23 Illinois Travels to Rutgers, Seeking Continued Success

Illinois Finding Its Stride After Key Players Return

For the first time in weeks, No. 23 Illinois (15-7, 7-5 Big Ten) finally had its full roster available—and it showed in an 87-79 win over Ohio State on Sunday.

Illinois had struggled with injuries and illness, but with Kasparas Jakucionis back at point guard and Tomislav Ivisic returning from mononucleosis, the Fighting Illini looked like their early-season selves again.

Head coach Brad Underwood couldn’t hide his relief.

The freshman duo of Morez Johnson Jr. (14 points, 15 rebounds) and Will Riley (24 points) also played a crucial role, helping Illinois dominate the second half with a 64.3 percent shooting performance after halftime.

With momentum finally on their side, the Illini now look to carry their resurgence onto the road in a crucial Big Ten matchup against Rutgers on Wednesday.

Rutgers Aims to Rebound From Tough Loss

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights (11-11, 4-7 Big Ten) fought hard in a 66-63 loss to Michigan on Saturday but struggled to contain the Wolverines’ big men in the paint.

That could spell trouble against an Illinois team featuring Ivisic (7’1”, 255 lbs) and Johnson (6’9”, 255 lbs), both of whom helped the Illini outmuscle Ohio State in the paint.

Rutgers’ Recent Challenges:

• Injury Woes: The Scarlet Knights lost center Emmanuel Ogbole to a season-ending knee injury and could be without star freshman Dylan Harper (high ankle sprain).
• Interior Struggles: Michigan outscored Rutgers 30-16 in paint points, and Illinois’ size could present a similar issue.
• Finding Scoring Options: Jamichael Davis (career-high 20 points vs. Michigan) and Tyson Acuff (14 points, 4 three-pointers) need to continue stepping up in Harper’s absence.

Despite these setbacks, head coach Steve Pikiell remains optimistic.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Illinois’ Frontcourt vs. Rutgers’ Interior Defense

With Ogbole out, Rutgers has struggled to contain strong big men, as seen in the Michigan loss. If Ivisic and Johnson impose their will inside, Illinois will have a major edge.

2. Will Riley’s Perimeter Shooting vs. Rutgers’ Defense

Riley hit 9-of-10 shots in the second half against Ohio State. Can Rutgers slow down his hot shooting?

3. Jamichael Davis’ Playmaking vs. Illinois’ Perimeter Defense

Davis was Rutgers’ best offensive weapon against Michigan. Illinois’ guards must contain him without fouling.

Industry’s Best

Handicapping Membership

Get Free Trial

Can Illinois Keep Rolling, or Will Rutgers Pull Off a Statement Win?

With Illinois regaining full strength and momentum, the Fighting Illini look dangerous again in the Big Ten race.

However, Rutgers needs a big home win to stay competitive in the conference standings. If the Scarlet Knights can contain Illinois’ size and find consistent scoring, they could turn their home-court energy into an upset bid.

Will Illinois keep rising, or will Rutgers respond? Wednesday’s showdown will provide the answer.