How Illinois Can Flip the Script in Its Final Three Games

The Illini Sit at 5-6, But a Bowl Game is Still in Play

Illinois has a daunting task ahead of it if it wants to make a bowl game this season. The Illini are 5-6 overall and 3-5 in the Big Ten, and they need to win their final three games to reach the six-win threshold for bowl eligibility.

Illinois' remaining schedule features a home game against Purdue, a road game at Michigan State, and a home game against Northwestern. Purdue and Michigan State are both bowl-eligible, while Northwestern is 1-10 this season.

The Illini will need to play their best football in these final three games to have a chance at a bowl game. They will need to be efficient on offense, stout on defense, and consistent on special teams.

The Illini Offense Needs to Find Its Rhythm

Illinois' offense has struggled to find its rhythm this season. The Illini are averaging just 21.7 points per game, which ranks 11th in the Big Ten.

The Illini have been particularly ineffective in the passing game. Quarterback Artur Sitkowski has completed just 53.6% of his passes for 1,484 yards, nine touchdowns, and six interceptions.

The Illini need to find a way to get more production from their passing game in order to be successful in their final three games.

The Illini Defense Needs to Step Up

Illinois' defense has been solid this season, but it will need to step up in the final three games.

The Illini are allowing an average of 22.8 points per game, which ranks seventh in the Big Ten.

The Illini will need to continue to play well against the run and generate more pressure on the quarterback in order to be successful in their final three games.

The Illini Special Teams Needs to Be Consistent

Illinois' special teams have been inconsistent this season.

The Illini have made just 10 of 17 field goals this season, and they have allowed two punts to be blocked.

The Illini need to be more consistent on special teams in order to be successful in their final three games.

Conclusion

Illinois has a tough task ahead of it if it wants to make a bowl game this season, but it is still possible.

The Illini need to play their best football in their final three games in order to have a chance at a bowl game.