BIG TEN FOOTBALL: Illinois Fighting Illini 2008 Season Predictions

Will the Illini be able to repeat the success of last season?  Is it possible they are even better this year?  Who will replace Mendenhall?  Can Juice handle the pressure?

We'll see...  My predictions for the Illini in 2008.

8/30     MISSOURI (at St. Louis)

This will be a close game, and the difference will be Chase Daniel.

Prediction:  Loss  (31-27)

9/06     EASTERN ILLINOIS

The Illini will regroup after a close loss to Missouri.

Prediction:  Win (48-14)

9/13     LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE

This will be another easy win.

Prediction:  Win (45-7)

9/27     at PENN STATE

The rowdy Penn State atmosphere is the difference in this close one.

Prediction:  Loss (27-24)

10/04   at MICHIGAN

Michigan doesn't have enough to beat the Fighting Illini.

Prediction:  Win (28-17)

10/11   MINNESOTA

Illinois is too much for the rebuilding Gophers.

Prediction:  Win (35-14)

10/18   INDIANA

Kellen Lewis vs. Juice Williams.  This will be fun to watch.

Prediction:  Win (31-24)

10/25   at WISCONSIN

It will take a very special effort to beat Wisconsin at Camp Randell.

Prediction:  Loss (27-21)

11/01   IOWA

Iowa just can't handle the Juice.

Prediction:  Win (35-10)

11/08   WESTERN MICHIGAN

A bye week before OSU rolls into town.

Prediction:  Win (42-17)

11/15   OHIO STATE

The Buckeyes have revenge in mind.

Prediction:  Loss (28-20)

11/22   at NORTHWESTERN

The Illini will finish the season strong.

Prediction:  Win (31-10)

Final Record 8-4.  Not quite as strong as last year, but the competition is a bit stronger.  A respectable season for the Illini.