Northwestern vs. Illinois predictions

Tristan Jung: Northwestern 38, Illinois 10

Illinois has no offense. That’s not a great recipe for success.

Davis Rich: Northwestern 35, Illinois 3

It probably won’t be back-to-back shutouts for Northwestern. It might be close. Justin Jackson goes over the century mark one last time in the regular season for the Wildcats. A couple of early Illinois turnovers give Northwestern a short field and a big halftime lead, and the Wildcats coast to a seventh straight win. Bring on the bowl game speculation.

Will Ragatz: Northwestern 34, Illinois 13

Even if Northwestern’s offense doesn’t show up right away, Illinois isn’t going to be able to move the ball against the Wildcats’ red-hot defense. That said, I don’t think Clayton Thorson and Justin Jackson will have too much trouble getting going in Champaign, and the HAT will stay in Evanston for at least another year. Is Jackson’s career high of 224 rushing yards within reach?

Caleb Friedman: Northwestern 45, Illinois 14

Illinois just can't hang with Northwestern for four quarters. Justin Jackson and Jeremy Larkin will run wild, and this one will be over after three quarters. Make it seven straight for the 'Cats.

Henrique DaMour: Northwestern 38, Illinois 10

After a shellacking of Minnesota to check “blowout” off their list of top-25 qualifiers, Northwestern’s offense will show no signs of slowing down, on the ground or through the air. Justin Jackson racked up 166 yards last weekend and is going to ball even further out in his last regular season game ever. Illinois’ points will come in garbage time, if at all. It’s going to be a fun day in Champaign if you’re rooting for the purple.

Talia Hendel: Northwestern 38, Illinois 7

Northwestern should dominate this game, no question. Sure, there’s been upsets this season, but I’d be absolutely shocked if NU didn’t come out and score a few quick touchdowns to take over this game early. This should be a nice end to the season with a few more records broken by Justin Jackson.

Martin Oppegaard: Northwestern 28, Illinois 0

One week after throwing a no-hitter, Mike Hankwitz’s defense pitches a perfect game.