In Week 3 of the 2025 college football season, the Western Michigan Broncos travel to Champaign, Illinois to take on the Illinois Fighting Illini. The game is set for a 7:00 PM kickoff at Memorial Stadium and will be broadcast on FS1. This outdoor contest sees the Broncos, representing the Mid-American Conference, facing a tough challenge against the Illini. Western Michigan enters this game with an 0-2 record, having dropped their first two games of the season against Michigan State and North Texas. Despite their struggles, the Broncos demonstrated a strong rushing performance in their recent game against North Texas. They racked up 216 rushing yards but ultimately fell short in a close 33-30 loss. On the other side, Illinois holds a 2-0 record and is ranked #9 in both the AP and Coaches Polls. The Fighting Illini showed their dominance in their previous game, defeating Duke 45-19 on the road. Backed by their home crowd at Memorial Stadium, Illinois will look to maintain their perfect start to the season.
Illinois vs Western Michigan At a Glance
- Game Date and Time: Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 7:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Stadium in Champaign, IL
- TV Channel: FS1
- Illinois Fighting Illini Record: 2-0 this season
- Western Michigan Broncos Record: 0-2 this season
- Game Odds: Illinois is favored with a spread of -27.5
Illinois Fighting Illini: A Look Ahead to the Upcoming Game
Offensive Strengths
The Illinois Fighting Illini have shown a significant offensive presence in the 2025 season. Ranking 8th in points scored with 97 and 38th in passing yards at 527, their offense is a considerable threat. Their rushing attack is also formidable, with 337 yards placing them 59th.
First downs have been a particular strength for Illinois, ranking 18th with 46. This ability to consistently move the chains showcases their balanced offensive strategy. The team’s efficiency in converting plays into first downs is key to maintaining their offensive momentum.
Defensive Capabilities
Illinois’ defense has been equally impressive, ranking 14th with only 22 points allowed. Their ability to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks is highlighted by 6 sacks, ranking them 5th. Furthermore, their defensive prowess is evident with the top rank in fumbles recovered, having secured 5.
Interceptions are another area where the Illini excel, with 1 interception ranking them 2nd. This defensive strength helps limit opponents’ scoring opportunities and creates additional chances for the offense. The combination of a stout defense and a capable offense makes Illinois a formidable opponent.
Recent Performances
The Fighting Illini demonstrated their offensive and defensive capabilities in their recent games. In their victory over Duke, Illinois scored 45 points while holding Duke to just 19, showcasing their offensive strength and defensive resilience. Their ability to force 4 fumbles and secure 1 interception was crucial to this win.
Similarly, against Western Illinois, the Illini dominated with a 52-3 win. They achieved 21 first downs and limited their opponents to 11, while also outgaining them in both passing and rushing yards. These performances indicate a well-rounded team ready to face future challenges.
Key Players
Quarterback Luke Altmyer has been pivotal for Illinois, ranking 32nd in passing yards with 513 and 10th in passing touchdowns with 6. His efficiency and decision-making are vital to the team’s success. In the rushing department, Kaden Feagin has contributed significantly with 122 yards, ranking him 110th.
Wide receiver Hank Beatty is a standout performer, ranking 9th in receiving yards with 236. His ability to make crucial receptions helps stretch defenses and create scoring opportunities. The Illini’s offensive weapons are well-equipped to challenge opposing defenses.
Team Betting Trends
- Illinois has covered the spread in their last 2 games.
- The total has gone over in 1 of Illinois’ last 2 games.
- Illinois is undefeated in their last 2 games.
Western Michigan Broncos: A Glimpse into the Upcoming Battle
Offensive Performance
The Western Michigan Broncos have kicked off the 2025 season with an average of 36 points per game, ranking 54th overall. Their passing game, however, has struggled, accumulating only 275 passing yards, placing them at 110th in the nation. On the ground, they have shown strength with 245 rushing yards, ranked 87th, demonstrating a balanced offensive attack.
Last season, the Broncos amassed 376 points, ranking 43rd, with a total of 2429 passing yards. Their rushing attack was more prolific, garnering 2415 yards, which positioned them at 35th nationally. Despite the mixed results, the team’s offensive strategy has emphasized a ground-heavy approach.
Defensive Struggles
Defensively, the Broncos have allowed 56 points in the current season, ranking them 46th. Their pass rush has been impressive with 7 sacks, placing them 4th overall, showcasing their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. However, their ability to force turnovers needs improvement, with only 1 interception and 1 fumble recovered thus far.
In 2024, the Broncos’ defense had difficulties, surrendering 407 points and ranking 133rd. They recorded 19 sacks and 8 interceptions, indicating room for improvement in their secondary. The defense will need to tighten up to provide more support to the offense.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Broc Lowry leads the Broncos’ offense with 166 passing yards and 1 touchdown across two games. Running back Jalen Buckley has been a key contributor with 133 rushing yards, complementing the team’s run-heavy strategy. Wide receiver Baylin Brooks has also contributed with 90 receiving yards, providing a reliable target in the passing game.
On special teams, kicker Palmer Domschke has been perfect with 3 field goals and 3 extra points. These performances underscore the Broncos’ potential for explosive plays. However, the team will need to improve overall consistency to turn these individual efforts into victories.
Injury Concerns
The Broncos are dealing with a series of injuries, including linebacker Domanick Moon and running back Cole Cabana, both listed as questionable. The absence of cornerbacks Jordon Thomas and Corey Webb could impact the defense’s ability to cover receivers. Defensive lineman Gian Carter’s status remains uncertain, adding another layer of concern for the Broncos.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU Last 10: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU as Underdog: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU in Night Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
The Broncos are yet to secure a win this season, having lost their first two games. Their offensive and defensive units must both step up to change this trend. As they prepare for the next game against the Illinois Fighting Illini, the team will need to focus on improving execution on both sides of the ball.
Illinois vs Western Michigan Prediction: Illinois -27.5
Illinois enters this Week 3 matchup with a perfect 2-0 record, reflecting their strong form this season. Their offensive capabilities are evident, ranking 8th in points for and 38th in passing yards, which will be critical against Western Michigan. Given their current momentum and home advantage at Memorial Stadium, they are well-positioned to cover the -27.5 spread.
Western Michigan, on the other hand, is struggling with a 0-2 record. Although their defense has shown some promise with a decent sack and interception record, their offensive output is limited, ranking 110th in passing yards. This disparity in performance could lead to challenges in keeping pace with Illinois’ high-powered offense.
Illinois’ defense, ranked 14th in points against, will likely stifle Western Michigan’s offensive efforts. Western Michigan’s current form and road challenges make it unlikely they’ll manage a close game against a top-ranked Illinois team. This prediction is further supported by Illinois’ recent defensive successes and overall team efficiency.
Based on these observations, Illinois is expected to secure a decisive victory at home. A projected final score of Illinois 45 – Western Michigan 10 supports the prediction of Illinois covering the spread of -27.5.
- Illinois vs Western Michigan Prediction: Illinois -27.5
- Illinois vs Western Michigan Score: Illinois 45 – Western Michigan 10
