The surging Illini have won four straight, including two against ranked conference opponents in Iowa and Wisconsin, and two of the four also went down to the wire. This looms as a letdown spot against the downtrodden Huskers, who have lost eight straight amid myriad pandemic-related and other personnel issues. But Nebraska has still been a reasonably tough out at home, and challenged Wisconsin in its last outing before the Badgers pulled away late. Another such effort, along with a possible letdown from the Illini, should be a formula for covering the enticing number.

Nebraska’s return from a near-month layoff has resulted in three double-digit losses. Cold shooting has shown the Huskers are not in rhythm and ready for game action. Attempting to play their fourth game in less than a week is a value angle against Illinois. Take the value on the Cornhuskers having their legs under them and competing Friday night.