Illinois-Northwestern: 5 keys

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1

How will Jacob Charest do in his first start?

If he keeps the same attitude he had in two relief appearances, the North Carolina native will be fine. His teammates have raved about Charest's positive attitude on the sideline, even after an ineffective series. He wouldn't be human if he wasn't a bit nervous, but the first pass or two should loosen him up. Northwestern is sixth in the Big Ten in pass defense and has given up 14 touchdowns.

2

Which Illinois running back takes the bulk of the carries?

The one who gets off to the best start. If Jason Ford starts and bangs out a couple of 10-yard gains early in the game, he'll get more work. If Mikel Leshoure muscles past the Northwestern defense for a critical first down, he gets more turns. Before the Minnesota game, the Illinois coaches decided Ford deserved to start. It worked well, with Ford running hard from the beginning and scoring a pivotal touchdown. Leshoure, who had consecutive 100-yard games against Purdue and Michigan, is also in the plans.

3

Will Terry Hawthorne have another pick six?

Don't put it past him. The Northwestern quarterbacks have their share of interceptions, and the freshman has said he wants more than one. He'll have a difficult time getting the four he had as a senior at East St. Louis. Hawthorne his pushing his way toward Big Ten Freshman of the Year consideration. He will certainly be the Illinois defensive freshman of the year.

4

Will Illinois struggle stopping Mike Kafka?

Yes, assuming the Northwestern quarterback is healthy. Runner/throwers tend to give the Illini defense more problems than drop-back types. The Illini line went to town against Minnesota's Adam Weber because he didn't have the athleticism to get away. But if the Illini chase Kafka, he will run for big chunks of yards. The team's leading rusher has scored six touchdowns. His passing ability makes him even better when he scrambles.

5

Will the victor run around the field with the Land of Lincoln Trophy?

Let's hope so. Why should Minnesota and Wisconsin get all the fun. Of course, there is much less danger carrying around a stovepipe hat than there is carrying a giant ax. Unless it drops on somebody. That wouldn't be good. Illinois currently holds none of the three trophies it plays for. Purdue has the Cannon and Ohio State has the Illibuck.

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