Wisconsin vs. Illinois Point Spread: Badgers Open As Slight Favorite

Must-Win Saturday: Breaking Down the Wisconsin vs. Illinois Point Spread

Wisconsin linebackers Jordan Turner and Maema Njongmeta (55) celebrate after Turner sacks Iowa quarterback Deacon Hill on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wis. Iowa won the game, 12-6 :: © Tork Mason / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Badgers have opened as a road favorite in what is a must-win game for Wisconsin

This coming Saturday, the Wisconsin Badgers will look to bounce back from an abysmal performance at Camp Randall against the Iowa Hawkeyes when they hit the road to take on Illinois. The opening point spread for Saturday's game has been released, and the Badgers are currently listed as a slight favorite over the Fighting Illini.

What is the Point Spread?

According to DraftKings, Wisconsin is currently a 2.5-point favorite over Illinois in what is a must-win for both teams if they want any chance of winning the Big Ten West. As far as the Over/Under goes, it is currently set at 42, which means another low-scoring game is expected.

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The Badgers Backup Plan

Not only did the Badgers lose to the Hawkeyes this past Saturday, but they also lost their starting quarterback, Tanner Mordecai along the way. With Mordecai out with a broken hand, Wisconsin will roll with Braedyn Locke, who has not started a football game since he was in high school. In two games with the Badgers in 2023, Locke has completed 51.6% of his passes for 130 yards and an interception.

Prediction Time!

This game is going to be extremely difficult for Wisconsin, as they will be without their leader, Tanner Mordecai. With that being said, when it comes to the Badgers football program, it is all about the "Next Man Up" mentality. In this situation, the next man up is Braedyn Locke, who will be thrust into the starting lineup against Illinois.

So far in 2023, the Fighting Illini have struggled offensively (No. 83 in the nation) and defensively (No. 96 in the nation). They are currently giving up 164.1 rushing yards per game, and that is where the Badgers SHOULD be able to take advantage. As long as Wisconsin can establish the run, the pressure will be off Locke, and they will escape with a big win.

Prediction: Wisconsin 23 Illinois 17