The Illini are a perfect representation of what coach Bret Bielema wants in a program. They run the ball, play defense and are efficient in the passing game. That's more than enough to control the tempo of the game against an Indiana team that finished last in the Big Ten in scoring defense. The Hoosiers were the darling of college football during the COVID-19 year, but it's insane to let that leftover narrative linger into the 2022 season. The Hoosiers don't have a quarterback who can consistently move the chains like they did back then.

Indiana had a miserable 2021 season, finishing 2-10 and were not even competitive in most of those losses. In particular, due to injuries and general dysfunction, the offense was especially bad. This season starts with a question mark at QB with the team not revealing which of Conner Bazelak or Jack Tuttle will start. The Illini already have a game under their belts, which was an blowout of Wyoming. Indiana may be improved this season, but I still think Illinois is ahead.

Indiana is playing its cards close to the vest and not announcing whether Jack Tuttle or Missouri transfer Conor Bazelak will start at QB. Frankly, I don't think it matters, as neither inspires a lot of confidence. The Indiana offense averaged only 10.4 points per game in conference play last season, and I haven't seen enough to believe things will improve dramatically this season. Plus, Illinois had one of the better defenses in the conference last season, and already has a game under its belt with new transfer QB Tommy DeVito. I think Illinois wins, but I'd rather have the points.