GOPHERS OFFENSE VS.

Illini DEFENSE

David Cobb should have another field day, as Illinois ranks last in the Big Ten in rushing defense, allowing 271.1 yards per game. Illinois ranks sixth in the conference against the pass. In conference games, Mitch Leidner ranks second in the Big Ten in pass efficiency, at 148.4. Advantage: Gophers

SPECIAL TEAMS

Gophers kicker Ryan Santoso is 6-for-6 on field goal attempts in Big Ten play, and Peter Mortell leads the conference in punting average, at 45.3 yards. Advantage: Gophers

º player to watch

Illinois wide receiver Mike Dudek had eight catches for 200 yards in the team's loss to Purdue three weeks ago. He ranks third among the nation's freshmen with 598 receiving yards. He has proven clutch with 12 fourth-quarter first downs and 12 receptions for 15 or more yards in the second half. He has three TDs and 37 catches.

THE OPPONENT

Third-year coach Tim Beckman is on the hot seat with a 1-18 Big Ten record. The Illini need to score big to win, as they rank last in the Big Ten in scoring defense, at 35.9 points per game.

GOPHERS DEFENSE VS.

Illini OFFENSE

Illinois leads the Big Ten in passing, but with Lunt hurt, it's up to senior Reilly O'Toole and sophomore Aaron Bailey to make the throws. O'Toole completed 12 of 19 passes against Wisconsin. Bailey replaced him in the fourth quarter and rushed for 75 yards on 12 carries. Advantage: Gophers

INTANGIBLES

It's homecoming at Illinois, and the Illini will be wearing special "Gray Ghost" alternate uniforms, honoring legendary running back Red Grange. Advantage: Illinois

JOE'S PREDICTION

37 21

MINNILL

This looks like a trap game — on the road before big November showdowns — but the Gophers got their wake-up call last week against Purdue.