Illinois Fighting Illini vs Ohio State Buckeyes Picks and Predictions October 11th 2025

Illinois Fighting Illini vs Ohio State Buckeyes October 11th 2025

Week 7 of the 2025 college football season brings an exciting game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Illinois Fighting Illini. The game will take place at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, IL, with kickoff set for 12:00 PM on Saturday, October 11. Fans can catch the action on FOX.

Tap Into Pro Analysis for Every Game

From NFL to MLB and Beyond

Get Free Trial

Ohio State enters the game as the top-ranked team in both the AP and Coaches Polls. They have a perfect 5-0 record this season. Illinois, ranked 17th, boasts a strong 5-1 record. Both teams are part of the Big Ten Conference. This matchup is set on an outdoor field, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game day atmosphere.

Ohio State vs Illinois CFB Key Information

• Sport: College Football
• Teams: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Illinois Fighting Illini
• Venue: Memorial Stadium, Champaign, IL
• Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
• Betting Odds: Ohio State Moneyline -664, Illinois Moneyline +473, Ohio State Spread -14.5 (-110), Illinois Spread +14.5 (-110), Total Over 50.5 (-108), Total Under 50.5 (-113)

Ohio State vs Illinois – Big Ten Week 7 Betting Preview

Saturday, October 12 | Memorial Stadium, Champaign | FOX

The Ohio State Buckeyes look to remain undefeated as they travel to face the Illinois Fighting Illini in one of this week’s most intriguing Big Ten matchups.

Ohio State has dominated both sides of the ball so far, sitting at 5-0 and ranked No. 1 in the nation, while Illinois has surged into the Top 20 thanks to an efficient offense led by quarterback Luke Altmyer. The Illini have rebounded from early-season setbacks and are eager to test themselves against the Big Ten’s benchmark program.

Ohio State can win if

Quarterback Julian Sayin maintains his sharp rhythm and continues to spread the ball across the field. In the 42-3 rout of Minnesota, Sayin threw for 341 yards and completed nearly 85 percent of his passes. His precision has made the Buckeyes’ air attack one of the most dangerous in college football.

The Buckeyes’ defense has been equally dominant, ranking fourth in the nation in points allowed and first in scoring defense per drive. Linebacker C.J. Hicks and the defensive front have limited opposing rushing games all season.

Offensively, wideout Jeremiah Smith has been nearly unstoppable, posting 463 receiving yards and six touchdowns, while Bo Jackson adds balance with 360 rushing yards. If Ohio State continues to dictate pace early, Illinois will have trouble keeping up.

Illinois can win if

Luke Altmyer plays mistake-free football and the Illini defensive front gets pressure on Sayin. Altmyer was excellent in last week’s 43-27 win over Purdue, throwing for 390 yards and a touchdown with no turnovers. His poise and timing have elevated the Illini offense, which ranks 11th nationally in scoring and 14th in passing yards.

Defensively, Illinois has generated havoc up front with 14 sacks and eight fumble recoveries, both top-15 marks nationally. Running back Kaden Feagin and wide receiver Hank Beatty have been key contributors, with Beatty coming off a career-high 186 yards receiving.

If Illinois can slow down Ohio State’s tempo and win the turnover battle, they have the formula to make this a four-quarter fight in front of their home crowd.

Line Movement and Odds

Opening: Ohio State -13 / Illinois +13
Current: Ohio State -14.5 / Illinois +14.5
Total: 50.5 points

The Buckeyes opened as heavy favorites and continue to attract public action after five straight covers. Illinois has played well at home against ranked opponents but faces the country’s most complete team.

For updated lines and total movement, visit the college football odds page. To compare sportsbook performance and promotions, explore the Sportsbook Reviews section or operator rankings in Pay Per Head Reviews.

Matchup Breakdown

Ohio State averages 37.4 points per game while allowing just 5.0, thanks to elite balance on both sides. The Buckeyes are 8-2 against the spread in their last 10 Big Ten games and have won eight straight meetings against Illinois.

Illinois, meanwhile, is averaging 37 points per game and has shown resilience after a blowout loss to Indiana. The Illini offense has improved behind an offensive line that has allowed just one sack in its last two contests.

For analytics-driven matchup data and team comparisons, check the college football teams page and consult the Expert Betting Guide for game-model projections.

Injury Report

Ohio State Buckeyes

• WR Carnell Tate (ankle) – probable
• CB Denzel Burke (shoulder) – questionable
• LB Sonny Styles (wrist) – probable

Illinois Fighting Illini

• RB Aidan Laughery (ankle) – probable
• C Josh Kreutz (knee) – questionable
• DE Jer’Zhan Newton (ankle) – probable

Weather in Champaign is expected to be clear with temperatures around 64°F at kickoff.

Best Bets and Prediction

Ohio State’s defense is on a different level right now, and while Illinois has an impressive offense, the Buckeyes’ secondary and pass rush should prove too much to handle. Expect Ohio State to establish control early and cover the spread comfortably.

Prediction: Ohio State 35, Illinois 17
Best Bet: Ohio State -14.5 (-110)
Secondary Lean: Over 50.5 (-110)

For verified expert picks and leaderboard performance, visit the Best Handicappers Leaderboard or browse comparative insights on Handicappers Sites Reviews.

ScoresAndStats Betting Resources

• Best Handicappers – Track the top cappers and long-term ROI
• Sportsbook Reviews – Find secure and high-rated betting operators
• Expert Betting Guide – Explore advanced data and betting models
• Pay Per Head Reviews – Evaluate sportsbook and operator platforms