As Week 9 of the 2025 College Football season approaches, the Illinois Fighting Illini will travel to Seattle to take on the Washington Huskies. Both teams come into this game with identical 5-2 records, showcasing their competitive play in the Big Ten Conference. The game will take place at the outdoor Husky Stadium and will be televised on BTN at 3:30 PM on October 25th.
Ranked #23 in both the AP and Coaches Polls, the Illinois Fighting Illini have shown strength on the road with a 2-1 record. Despite their recent loss to Ohio State, they previously secured a notable win against the Purdue Boilermakers. Their offensive prowess was evident in a previous matchup with Purdue, where they posted 390 passing yards.
The Washington Huskies also sport a 5-2 record and boast a 3-1 home record, making Husky Stadium a challenging environment for visiting teams. After a tough loss to Michigan, they aim to rebound with a victory at home. Previously, the Huskies demonstrated their capability with a significant win over the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, accumulating 402 passing yards.
Washington vs Illinois At a Glance
- Game Date and Time: Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 3:30 PM
- Location: Husky Stadium in Seattle, WA — Outdoor Field
- Illinois Fighting Illini Record: 5-2 Overall, 2-2 in Big Ten Conference
- Washington Huskies Record: 5-2 Overall, 2-2 in Big Ten Conference
- Game Odds: Washington Moneyline -195, Illinois Moneyline +162
- TV Channel: BTN
Washington Huskies Ready to Tackle Illinois Challenge
Offensive Performance
The Washington Huskies have managed to score 242 points this season, ranking them 24th in the nation. Their passing game has accumulated 1,887 yards, placing them at 31st. However, their rushing attack is ranked 51st with 1,193 yards, indicating room for improvement on the ground.
First downs have been a strong suit for Washington, ranking 16th with 166 first downs gained. This ability to move the chains has been crucial in maintaining possession and controlling the game’s tempo. Washington’s offensive unit will need to continue this trend against Illinois.
Defensive Standouts
Defensively, the Huskies have allowed 142 points, positioning them 72nd nationally. Their pass rush has been effective, recording 14 sacks, which places them 15th overall. Washington’s secondary has also been sharp with 6 interceptions, ranking 7th.
In terms of forcing turnovers, they have recovered 2 fumbles, ranking 8th. The defense’s ability to create pressure and force mistakes will be vital against Illinois. With key defensive players out due to injury, others will need to step up.
Recent Game Performance
In their recent game against Michigan, the Huskies fell 24-7. Their offense struggled, managing only 40 rushing yards and 209 passing yards, while their defense allowed 189 rushing yards. Turnovers were a significant issue, with 3 interceptions thrown.
Previously, the Huskies achieved a 38-19 victory over Rutgers at home, showcasing a more balanced offensive performance with 402 passing yards and 188 rushing yards. This dual threat will be essential in their upcoming matchup.
Key Players
Quarterback Demond Williams Jr. has thrown for 1,837 yards and 10 touchdowns, leading the Huskies’ aerial attack. Running back Jonah Coleman is a notable contributor on the ground with 568 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.
Wide receiver Denzel Boston has emerged as a key target, amassing 515 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns. These players will be critical in Washington’s efforts to outscore Illinois.
Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: 26-1 (96.3%) in the last 27 games.
- SU – Home Games: 24-2 (92.3%) in the last 26 games.
- SU – Totals ≥ 50: 25-5 (83.3%) in the last 30 games.
- SU – After Loss: 4-0 (100.0%) in the last 4 games.
- ATS – As Favorite: 6-2 (75.0%) in the last 8 games.
Illinois Fighting Illini: A Closer Look at the Underdogs
Quarterback Performance
Luke Altmyer is the central figure for the Illinois offense, leading with 1,821 passing yards, which ranks him 21st nationally. With 13 passing touchdowns and only a single interception, Altmyer has demonstrated efficiency under center. His consistency is crucial as Illinois heads into a challenging game against Washington.
Rushing Attack
The Illini’s ground game has struggled, ranking 102nd in rushing yards this season. Kaden Feagin leads the running backs with 338 yards and five touchdowns. Feagin’s contribution will be essential in providing balance to the offensive strategy.
Ca’Lil Valentine and Aidan Laughery also contribute to the rushing effort, with 329 and 181 yards, respectively. Their ability to step up in key situations can provide the necessary support for Altmyer.
Receiving Corps
Hank Beatty is the standout receiver with 617 yards and two touchdowns, ranking 10th in receiving yards. Collin Dixon and Justin Bowick follow with 357 and 150 yards, respectively, adding depth to the passing game. The receiving unit’s ability to stretch the field will be tested against Washington’s defense.
Defensive Overview
Illinois has shown strength in their pass rush, tallying 14 sacks, ranking 15th nationally. They have also excelled in forcing turnovers, with two interceptions and eight fumble recoveries, both among the nation’s leaders. This defensive prowess will be crucial in limiting Washington’s offensive output.
Recent Performance
In their last game, Illinois fell to Ohio State 34-16, despite outgaining them in passing yards with 248. Their defense struggled to contain Ohio State’s rushing attack, conceding 109 yards on the ground. This performance highlights areas that need improvement against a potent Washington offense.
Injury Concerns
Illinois is dealing with several injuries, including key players like Lane Hansen and Luke Zardzin, both listed as questionable. The absence of Grant Smith and JJ Hirdes for the season adds to their challenges. Navigating these injuries will be vital for their depth and performance.
Team Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: Last 9 Games (2024–2025) → 9-0 (100.0%)
- ATS – As Favorite: Last 6 Games (2024–2025) → 6-0 (100.0%)
- O/U – Away Games: Last 5 Games (2024–2025) → 5-0 (100.0%)
- ATS – Away Games: Last 22 Games (2021–2025) → 17-5 (77.3%)
Washington vs Illinois Prediction: Washington -4.5
The Washington Huskies come into this game as the -4.5 point favorites against the Illinois Fighting Illini. Washington’s strong record as a favorite and their impressive performance at home, where they hold a 24-2 record over the last 26 games, makes them a solid choice. Their ability to bounce back after a loss, having won their last four games following a defeat, further strengthens their case for covering the spread.
Illinois has a commendable record and ranks #23 in both the AP and Coaches Polls. However, their road performance of 2-1 this season could be challenged by Washington’s strong home-field advantage. Illinois’ offensive struggles, particularly in rushing, ranking 102nd in the nation, may hinder their ability to keep pace with Washington.
Washington’s offense ranks 24th in points scored, and their home record suggests they can put up a substantial number of points against Illinois. Additionally, Illinois’ defense ranks 96th in points against, which could be exploited by Washington’s offensive efficiency.
Combining Washington’s potent offense and home-field edge with their historical performance against the spread as favorites, it seems likely they will cover the -4.5 point spread. The projected final score supports this prediction, with Washington expected to outpace Illinois in this contest.
- Washington vs Illinois Prediction: Washington -4.5
- Washington vs Illinois Score: Washington 31 – Illinois 24
