Western Kentucky at Illinois

Tim Beckman's reign in Champagne is likely contingent upon a good season as the last two have proved to be disappointing. Western Kentucky went through a lot of growing pains at the FBS level, but the program had a lot of experience and upperclassmen, and fared pretty well the last couple of years, but the Hilltoppers are likely to step backward this season. The defense has been depleted by graduation, and they are likely going to struggle, especially moving up into Conference USA this season. It is an even further leap in taking on a Big-10 opponent because they lack quality depth, and the Illini should have a big advantage in the second half as they wear them down. The Hilltoppers have put together some solid ATS numbers over the last couple of years, but not when playing on field turf where they are 4-10 ATS in their last 14. The Illini need this game to start 2-0, and to get some confidence as they head to the West Coast to take on Washington next week. Lay the points on Illinois.