When Illinois went on the road to face Penn State its defensive gameplan was keep everything in front of you, limit big plays, and see if you can force turnovers. I expect a similar approach here as Illinois knows its only shot is to limit possessions against an explosive Oregon squad. I can see an Oregon blowout, or a close game. What I don't see happening often is a shootout.

Say what? The Illini are ranked 20th, with recent impressive showings against ranked foes, and are receiving more than three TDs? Their offense might be limited, but the defense has helped sculpt a pair of 21-7 outcomes -- a win over Michigan, a loss to Penn State during which they trailed by a touchdown with two minutes left. Not suggesting the Ducks will fall outright, but uneasy lies the crown on top-ranked teams. Three have stumbled already this season. An Under could be considered, yet Illinois should keep a sufficient lid on the scoring to cover.

We have rain in the forecast for this Big Ten contest among ranked teams on CBS. Plus, 9 of 14 combined games have hit the under for these two teams this season. Excluding the Boise State and Ohio State games, Oregon is only giving up 10 points per game. Expect them to put the clamps on the Fighting Illini on Saturday. Oregon 34, Illinois 13.