CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Fresh off a win in Nebraska last week, No. 19 Illinois travels to No. 9 Penn State Saturday night at 6:30. After last week’s overtime win in Lincoln, the Fighting Illini are 4-0 for the first time since 2011. They are seeking to beat their third ranked opponent in a row (after Kansas and Nebraska).
In Illinois’ last matchup with Penn State, Altmyer was sacked three times, tossed four interceptions and the Illini lost 30-13. According to Illinois’ head coach Bret Bielema, Altmyer has developed into a top-tier quarterback. “Altmyer has proved he is a competitive, accurate passer, and he can run the ball effectively too. He’s competing at such a high level, and it’s only his second year on the Illinois squad.”
Altmyer is completing 71% of his passes and has thrown 10 touchdowns with no interceptions.
Illinois has started 4-0 just four times since 1936. In previous matchups, Penn State has won four of the last five against Illinois. Penn State is predicted to win with 17 1/2-point odds.