Illinois was one of the more surprising teams last year in college football, but oddsmakers have still made the Fighting Illini a 50/1 long shot to win the 2009 BCS National Championship.
Even though he struggled at the end of the year, getting quarterback Juice Williams back is a boost to the Illini offense. Wide receivers Kyle Hudson and Arrelious Benn also return, as well as key offensive linemen Ryan McDonald and Xavier Fulton. The defense will return cornerbacks Vontae Davis and Dere Hicks, as well as linebacker Brit Miller and defensive end Will Davis.
The major online sports books can’t seem to agree on what Illinois’ odds should be for the 2008-2009 season. Oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog have made the Illini a 50/1 long shot to win the BCS National Championship this season, while Sportsbook.com lists them at 100/1 and SBG Global at 30/1.
Ron Zook has turned Illinois’ fate around after just three seasons. Even though Ohio State and Wisconsin are going to be tough in the Big 10, the Fighting Illini could be a potential sleeper. And getting the Buckeyes at home this year helps after going toe to toe with them a year ago. There’s no doubt the Illinois are a long shot, but if Williams can continue to gain experience, the Illini might be a solid value pick.
Illinois Fighting Illini 2009 BCS National Championship Odds to win
Bodog: 50/1
Sportsbook.com: 100/1
SBG Global: 30/1
Illinois Fighting Illini Big 10 Conference Odds to win
Bodog: 4/1
Sportsbook.com: 4/1
SBG Global: 4/1
Illinois Fighting Illini 2008 Season Win Over/Under Totals
Illinois Fighting Illini Over 7.5 Wins (+105)
Illinois Fighting Illini Under 7.5 Wins (-135)