Purdue Boilermakers at Illinois Fighting Illini Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/12/2024 3:30 PM EST

We have your Purdue Boilermakers at Illinois Fighting Illini prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Purdue Boilermakers hit the road to face the Illinois Fighting Illini.

Purdue Boilermakers at Illinois Fighting Illini Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Purdue Boilermakers +800 (FanDuel) / Illinois Fighting Illini -1400 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: -19.5 - Purdue Boilermakers -110 (Caesars) / -18.5 - Illinois Fighting Illini -109 (BetRivers)
Best Total Odds: 50.0 - Under -108 (DraftKings) / Over -112 (DraftKings)

Game Info

Date: 10/12/2024
Time: 3:30 PM EST
Location: Memorial Stadium (Champaign, IL)
TV: FS1

Purdue Boilermakers at Illinois Fighting Illini Preview

The Purdue Boilermakers are set to face the Illinois Fighting Illini in a Big Ten clash that carries significant implications for both teams. Purdue, under the leadership of second-year head coach Ryan Walters, is struggling with a 1-4 record. The Boilermakers have been outscored 184-44 in their last four games, including a demoralizing 52-6 defeat to Wisconsin. This season has been challenging for Purdue, as they have faced difficulties on both sides of the ball, particularly on defense, where they have allowed an average of 46 points per game in their recent losses.

Illinois, on the other hand, is enjoying a more promising season with a 4-1 record. The Fighting Illini, coached by Bret Bielema, are coming off a bye week after a tough 21-7 loss to Penn State. Illinois has shown resilience this season, securing victories against ranked opponents like Kansas and Nebraska. The Illini are looking to capitalize on their momentum and continue their push towards a bowl game.

This matchup is not just another game; it's a rivalry with the Purdue Cannon at stake. The Boilermakers have historically had the upper hand, winning four straight and seven of the last eight meetings. However, this season's dynamics are different, with Illinois entering the game as a significant favorite. The Illini's defense, which was formidable under Walters when he was their defensive coordinator, will be a key factor in this game. Meanwhile, Purdue will need to find answers quickly if they hope to turn their season around and pull off an upset in Champaign.

As the Boilermakers and Fighting Illini prepare to clash at Memorial Stadium, all eyes will be on how Purdue's struggling offense can cope with Illinois' defensive prowess. With the Illini favored by 18.5 points, the Boilermakers will need to dig deep to find the form that saw them win last year's encounter. This game promises to be a test of character and strategy for both teams as they vie for bragging rights and a crucial conference victory.

Purdue Boilermakers at Illinois Fighting Illini Pick: Total Points Over

As the Purdue Boilermakers prepare to face the Illinois Fighting Illini, the expectation is for a high-scoring affair, making the over on the total points a compelling pick. Purdue's recent defensive struggles are a significant factor in this prediction. The Boilermakers have been outscored 184-44 in their last four games, allowing an average of 46 points per game. This porous defense has been unable to contain opponents, as evidenced by their recent 52-6 loss to Wisconsin, where they surrendered 589 yards of offense. Such defensive frailties suggest that Illinois, with its more potent offense, will have ample opportunities to score.

Illinois, coming off a bye week, has shown the ability to put points on the board, especially against ranked opponents like Kansas and Nebraska. Despite their recent 21-7 loss to Penn State, the Illini have demonstrated resilience and offensive capability throughout the season. With a 4-1 record, Illinois is motivated to maintain its momentum and secure a bowl game berth, which will likely translate into an aggressive offensive strategy against a struggling Purdue defense.

Moreover, the rivalry aspect of this matchup, with the Purdue Cannon at stake, adds an extra layer of intensity that could lead to a more open and high-scoring game. Historically, Purdue has had the upper hand in this rivalry, but the current dynamics favor Illinois, who are significant favorites. The Illini's defense, once formidable under Purdue's current head coach Ryan Walters, will aim to stifle Purdue's offense, but the Boilermakers' desperation to turn their season around could lead to unexpected offensive bursts.

Given these factors, the over on the total points is a logical choice. Purdue's defensive vulnerabilities combined with Illinois' offensive potential and the rivalry's competitive nature suggest that both teams will contribute to a higher-scoring game than the current total suggests.

Purdue Boilermakers at Illinois Fighting Illini Top Player Prop Picks

Trech Kekahuna Over 100.5 Receiving Yards Receiving Yards -110 (DraftKings)

Trech Kekahuna has emerged as a key offensive weapon for the Wisconsin Badgers, and his performance against Purdue last week was nothing short of spectacular. Kekahuna recorded six catches for 134 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to make big plays down the field. With Purdue's defense struggling mightily, having allowed an average of 46 points per game in their last four outings, Kekahuna is poised to exploit their vulnerabilities. The Boilermakers' secondary has been porous, and with Illinois likely to focus on stopping the run, Kekahuna should have ample opportunities to surpass the 100.5 receiving yards mark.

Braedyn Locke Over 2.5 Passing Touchdowns Passing Touchdowns +120 (FanDuel)

Braedyn Locke has stepped up admirably as Wisconsin's quarterback, especially in the absence of their injured starter. Against Purdue, Locke threw for 359 yards and three touchdowns, demonstrating his capability to lead a high-powered offense. Given Purdue's defensive woes, which have seen them concede an average of 46 points per game in recent losses, Locke is well-positioned to continue his touchdown spree. Illinois' defense, while solid, will have its hands full containing Wisconsin's explosive passing game, making Locke's over 2.5 passing touchdowns a compelling pick.

Tawee Walker Over 1.5 Rushing Touchdowns Rushing Touchdowns -105 (Caesars)

Tawee Walker has been a force in the backfield for Wisconsin, and his three rushing touchdowns against Purdue underscore his ability to find the end zone. With Purdue's defense having allowed 184 points over their last four games, Walker is likely to see plenty of opportunities to score. Illinois' defense will be focused on containing Wisconsin's passing attack, potentially opening up lanes for Walker to exploit. Given his recent form and Purdue's defensive struggles, betting on Walker to score over 1.5 rushing touchdowns is a strong proposition.