Iowa vs. Illinois discussion with Illini Rivals insider

Iowa’s weakness has been the offense, but what is one of Illinois’ weaknesses that Iowa could exploit?

The Illinois starting defense should be able to hold its own, but depth could be a concern if Iowa’s defense can continue to give its offense plenty of opportunities.

Iowa’s defense will have the chance to exploit plenty. It’s an Illinois offensive line that has been solid but inconsistent, and an Illinois wide receiver group that has had guys step up so far but still lacks a go-to playmaker.

One of the areas Iowa can probably exploit Illinois the most is on special teams. Kicker Caleb Griffin is 7-for-11 on the season, including just 2-of-5 on kicks of 40-plus yards. Though he made two field goals last week, Griffin was battling an injury, resulting in a shuffling of the kickoff unit.

Fabrizio Pinton had two of those kicks, both of which only reached the 10-yard line and were returned to the 47 and 34-yard line. And then punter Hugh Robertson has 22 punts this year for an average of 35.27 yards, 12 fair catches, five inside the 20, and just one punt of 50-plus yards. He also has punts of 11 yards, 12 yards, 23 yards, and 28 yards.