The Nebraska Cornhuskers and Illinois Fighting Illini will meet in a showdown between Big Ten programs on Friday. Not only do both teams have a 3-0 record entering this game, but this is also a matchup between top-25 teams, with the Huskers ranked No. 22 and the Illini No. 24 in the AP Top 25 poll.
Illinois is off to a strong start in 2024 and already has a nice win over Kansas on its resume. Last week, the Fighting Illini took down Central Michigan 30-9, and quarterback Luke Altmyer had another flawless performance. He completed 19 of his 29 passes for 242 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
In his first three games of the season, Altmyer has completed 69.2 percent of his passes for 647 yards, six touchdowns and zero interceptions. His relatively spotless start will be put to the test against a tough Nebraska defense this weekend.
In his second season on the job, Nebraska coach Matt Rhule appears 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 ranks so high in the rankings, completing 73.8% of his passes for 670 yards, five touchdowns and just one interception.
In addition to Raiola's excellent play, the Huskers' defense has also been responsible for much of this early success. So far, they have allowed just 6.7 points and 255.3 yards per game.
Where to watch Nebraska vs. Illinois
- When: Friday, September 20 at 8pm ET
- Where: Tom Osborne Stadium at Memorial Stadium, Lincoln, Nebraska
- TV: FOX
- Online broadcast: fuboTV (Try it 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 just $49.99. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and over 200 other top live TV and sports channels without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)
Nebraska vs. Illinois point spreads and odds
In this conference opener for both teams, Nebraska is a comfortable 9-point favorite against Illinois, according to the SportsLine consensus. Oddsmakers aren't expecting too many offensive fireworks with the over/under at 43.5 points.
History of the series between Nebraska and Illinois
Nebraska has a 14-6-1 record against Illinois in a series dating back to 1892.
- October 6, 2023: Nebraska 20, Illinois 7
- October 29, 2022: Illinois 26, Nebraska 9
- August 28, 2021: Illinois 30, Nebraska 22
- November 21, 2020: Illinois 41, Nebraska 23
- September 21, 2019: Nebraska 42, Illinois 38
