Ohio State vs. Illinois: 5 Halftime Adjustments the Fighting Illini Must Make

Pretty interesting game so far as No. 16 Illinois takes on the Ohio State Buckeyes at Memorial Stadium. The Illini are looking to remain unbeaten and avoid a ninth straight home defeat to Ohio State. 

If Illinois wants to move to 7-0 and continue to dominate the B1G, it must make the following five adjustments at halftime. 

Stop the Run/Herron 

Ohio State's offense has relied heavily on the ground and pound. In the second half, Illinois needs to stuff the middle and contain the run. Buckeyes RB Dan Herron is coming off of a long suspension and has fresh legs, so if the Illini want to win, they need to step up their run defense. 

Pressure

Illinois needs to keep bringing the heat in the second half. Whitney Mercilus has been a sack machine throughout the entire season and especially dominant today. The Illini need to keep bringing pressure and put the injured Braxton Miller on the ground.  

More A.J. Jenkins

A.J. Jenkins is a beast. In the final half, the Illini need to get Jenkins more touches with room to create space. Jenkins is considered by many to be one of the best receivers in college football, and if Illinois wants to remain undefeated, it must get its touchdown machine more looks. 

Step Up On Third Down 

Illinois needs to step up its offense in the second half. The Illini have not been able to convert when it counts and have suffered on long-yardage situations. Illinois needs to focus on gaining positive yards on early downs so it is not left with unfavorable third down situations. 

Take Advantage of the Wind

In the second half, Illinois has to take advantage and score points when the wind is on its side. In the first quarter, the Illini failed to score with the wind behind their back and in the final half, they must take advantage when the weather is favorable.