Matt Rhule meets with media, scouting Illinois
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule met with the media for his weekly press conference at the Hawks Championship Center on Monday morning, reflecting on Nebraska’s third-straight fourth quarter loss, and previewing to Illinois.
“As we looked at that game, that was a game that we felt like we could win, we should win, and we would win,” Rhule said. “And it didn’t happen. And so, I think when those things happen, you look back and try to look back with hindsight to see what went wrong – what can we do differently so that you can then have foresight moving forward.”
The Huskers will now turn their sights to a road match against Illinois on Friday. This will be the 23rd time these two programs have faced off, Nebraska going 14-7-1 over that span.
Watch Matt Rhule’s full press conference here:
Scouting Illinois
The 5-3 Fighting Illini have bounced back from a 2-3 start, winning their past three games against Michigan State (38-37), Oregon (21-10) and Maryland (20-17).
Illinois is led offensively by receiver Colin Dixon, who has hauled in 10 touchdowns and 781 yards. His 10 touchdowns currently ranks fourth in Division I. Hudson Clement is also a target the Nebraska defense will have to keep an eye on, as he has 453 yards.
“Credit to Illinois,” Rhule said. “They’re a really good football team. They can run the ball. (Collin) Dixon is a great player.”
Fifth-year quarterback Katin Houser – Illinois’ usual starter – made his return from injury in last week’s win over the Terrapins, going 18-of-32 for 223 yards, one touchdown and one interception. On the year, Houser has thrown for 1,663 yards, 13 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also can run when needed, going for 138 yards and a pair of scores. Illinois’ backup is Michael Clayton II, who led the Illini to their win over Oregon Oct. 24.
Aidan Laughery is Illinois’ lead running back. He has 568 yards and two touchdowns on the ground, one of his scores being a 77-yard run in the win against Oregon. The Illini will also feature Jordan Anderson in short-yardage situations.
Overall, the Illini average 29 points per game, while giving up 24.25. But, Illinois does rank 14th in the Big Ten in total yards allowed per game with 370.6. If Nebraska’s offense wants to get back on track following the last three weeks, this is a prime opportunity.
“They’re going to pressure you there,” Rhule said. “We were in that defense for three years here. Like we know it really well, right. It’s a challenge. And so, I don’t want our guys going out there thinking too much.”
Illinois has only forced six turnovers this season – three interceptions and three fumbles. But, Illinois’ lead safety Matthew Bailey has one of those interceptions, as well as 55 tackles, 35 solo and 3.5 being for loss. Also in the secondary, Juice Clarke has nine pass breakups on the season. Ean Rhea leads Illinois with two sacks, while a pair have 1.5.
Score predictions
Will Charlton: 21-20, Nebraska
Nick Eriksen: 21-20, Nebraska
