Illinois vs. Nebraska Odds, Spread & Line: Expert Predictions and Week 4 College Football Picks for 2024
Big Ten Showdown: No. 24 Illinois vs. No. 22 Nebraska in Week 4 Clash
Two closely matched Big Ten teams will face off this Friday as No. 24 Illinois travels to take on No. 22 Nebraska. Both squads finished last season with a 5-7 record, each on a losing streak. However, both have turned things around in 2024, starting the season 3-0, including key Week 2 wins over Big 12 opponents. While Nebraska won their last encounter 20-7, Illinois has secured victories in their past two trips to Nebraska.
The game kicks off at 8 p.m. ET at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Neb. Both teams have showcased strong defenses this season, with Nebraska allowing just 6.7 points per game and Illinois conceding 8.7. Nebraska enters as a 9-point favorite, according to the SportsLine consensus, with the over/under set at 42.5. Before making any picks for Illinois vs. Nebraska, be sure to check out the advanced predictions from the proven SportsLine model.
The SportsLine model simulates every FBS college football game 10,000 times. It has delivered over $2,000 in profits for $100 bettors on its top-rated spread picks and is off to a strong start this season, going 5-2 on over/under picks. Those following the model have seen solid returns.
Now, the model has its sights on Illinois vs. Nebraska. Head to SportsLine to see the model's picks for this matchup. In the meantime, here are the latest betting lines:
- Spread: Nebraska -9
- Over/Under: 42.5 points
- Moneyline: Nebraska -364, Illinois +280
Why Nebraska Can Cover
Nebraska's defense is in top form, giving up just 6.7 points per game this season, ranking among the top in the nation. The Cornhuskers have been especially tough against the run, allowing only 2.5 yards per carry and no rushing touchdowns. Illinois, on the other hand, has struggled offensively, ranking 79th in total offense. Leading rusher Kaden Feagin has been inefficient, managing just 4.1 yards per carry, making it difficult for the Illini to establish a ground attack.
Why Illinois Can Cover
Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer has elevated his play in his second year with the program. He has thrown six touchdown passes with no interceptions this season after a shaky year in 2023. Altmyer’s connection with standout receiver Pat Bryant, who leads the Big Ten in receiving touchdowns, could be crucial. Bryant's size and playmaking ability could create mismatches against Nebraska's smaller defensive backs.
How to Make Picks for Illinois vs. Nebraska
The model has run its simulations 10,000 times and is projecting a total score of 43, leaning slightly towards the Over. It has also produced a spread pick that is correct nearly 60% of the time. You can find the model’s final picks exclusively at SportsLine.
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