Would the Real Fighting Illini Please Step Forward?

Outside of Ohio State on Nov. 15, Illinois plays the best teams in the conference all on the road.  If this team can play to its potential, I don't think there's any doubt it can challenge for a Big Ten title.  Although they did lose two key players from last year, they have also returned as much talent and experience as anyone in the conference.

The biggest concern for this team is definitely the defense.  Zook said before the season started that the defense was going to end up being the strength of this team, and we have not seen that.  Although they've put some good pressure on the quarterback, they are still far too vulnerable to big plays, which have often put them in situations that they can't get out of.

Offensively, the Illini have as many weapons as anyone.  However, I think that for them to improve offensively, they have to get Arrelious Benn the football.  Through the first three games, it seems as though offensive coordinator Mike Locksley has been using Benn as a runner as much as a receiver.  I DON'T GET THIS!

Benn's strength is catching the ball, running after the catch, and breaking tackles.  Right now, he doesn't seem to be getting those opportunities.  When the Illini look deep, they are not looking to him.  They do have more talent at receiver with Chris Duvalt and Will Judson, but Benn is this team's best playmaker.

For them to improve on offense, they need to find him more.  It's really that simple.      

Penn State is up next, and this is a team that has looked mighty impressive, especially offensively, where their lowest yardage output so far is 454 yards.  In fact, you could argue that they look better than anyone in the Big Ten right now.

The outcome of this game should paint a fairly clear picture of whether or not Illinois should be considered in the race for a Big Ten title.

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