Nebraska Football: 3 reasons why Huskers will beat Illinois

1. The running game

Nebraska football went to the transfer portal and added former USC running back Markese Stepp and after being hindered by injuries this spring, Stepp is healthy again and appears ready to carry the load for the Huskers this fall.

During the Frost era, Nebraska has been at its best when it’s been able to establish the run and while quarterback Adrian Martinez is a solid runner, he can’t be the top ball-carrier for this team.

Gabe Ervin is another back who should get some carries on Saturday and behind an experienced offensive line, the Huskers should be able to take advantage of a defense that surrendered 230 yards per game on the ground in 2020.

In five of the last six games last season, Illinois allowed at least 200 yards rushing and if Nebraska football is able to hit that milestone this weekend, it’s going to spell trouble for the Fighting Illini.

On the other hand, if Illinois can slow the running game, it could force Martinez to win the game and while he’s certainly capable, he’s also been mistake-prone throughout his career.