Wisconsin Football: Way-too-early 2020 game-by-game predictions, Part 3
By James Bowers
When the Wisconsin Badgers took the field in Champaign on Oct. 19 of last year, they were likely looking ahead to the Ohio State Buckeyes that awaited them the following week.
The then 2-4 Illinois squad fell behind 10-0 in the second quarter before Donny Navarro caught a touchdown pass from Brandon Peters to make it 10-7. It was here that Wisconsin’s grip on the game began to slip and though they extended their lead to 20-7 at the end of the third, Illinois knew it had a shot as Peters and his defensive cohorts played with tenacity, took advantage of turnovers and put the team in position to drive for the game-winning field goal at the end of the game.
Kicker James McCourt delivered the Badgers their fatal blow and gave his Illini a season-turning 24-23 win.
The hangover from this loss followed Wisconsin into Columbus the following week, where they lost 38-7 to eventual conference champion Ohio State (Wisconsin’s attempt at revenge in the Big Ten title game fell short). Illinois rode the positive momentum to bowl eligibility in what had previously been written off as a losing season for Lovie Smith’s group.
Wisconsin and Illinois remember this game, and it will affect their preparation accordingly. It doesn’t help Wisconsin that Illinois brings back Peters and touted receiver Josh Imatorbhebhe, plus Sydney Brown on defense, among others. Illinois finished last in offseason recruiting, so Smith’s current aggregate is going to have to shine if they want to turn that number around in 2021.
A win over a Wisconsin team that will not have the services of Jonathan Taylor would be fruitful for Illinois. Paul Chryst knows this and the Badgers can expect to hit the film room a little harder during Illinois week.
The difference in 2019 was turnovers, and if the Badgers can avoid those they’ll be OK.
Final Score: Wisconsin 24, Illinois 13 (7-1)