The Michigan State Spartans take on an Illinois Fighting Illini team that has had a good season offensively.

The Illinois Fighting Illini enter their matchup against the Michigan State Spartans with a season that has, for the most part, been filled with impressive offensive moments, even if the overall statistics may not necessarily jump off the page. With a 6-3 record and an appearance in the AP Top 25, Illinois has positioned itself as a formidable opponent in the Big Ten, and despite a few unremarkable offensive rankings, the Illini offense has proven to be capable of explosive performances. As they prepare to face Michigan State, a team looking for a bounce-back victory after their second bye week, Illinois’ offensive power remains a critical point of focus for the Spartans.

In 2022, Michigan State pulled off an upset against Illinois, defeating the then No. 16-ranked Illini 23-15. The Spartans employed an effective defensive line rotation to stifle Illinois’ running game, an aspect of their offense that has been central to their success. Fast forward to 2023, and Illinois is coming off a bye week and a disappointing loss, making this contest even more crucial for their momentum as the team seeks to prove they can be competitive at a higher level.

On offense, Illinois might not lead the nation in total yards or scoring, but the team has made significant strides under offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. Lunney, who joined the Illini staff after previous stints at Arkansas and as a quarterbacks coach, has implemented a system that puts an emphasis on getting the ball to playmakers in space, attacking defenses with speed, and exploiting mismatches, particularly against man coverage. While the offensive statistics may not be eye-popping, Illinois has shown that it can be a dangerous team, capable of putting up impressive point totals when everything clicks.

Illinois ranks 94th in total offense (356.0 yards per game), 79th in passing offense (213.6 yards per game), 92nd in rushing offense (142.4 yards per game), and 84th in scoring offense (25.9 points per game). On the surface, these numbers may seem underwhelming when compared to the high-octane offenses of other Big Ten programs. However, Illinois’ offensive production is not to be underestimated, as the team has displayed the ability to explode offensively, including a dominant 50-point performance against Purdue earlier in the season. This game serves as a reminder that while Illinois may not consistently produce huge yardage, its ability to put points on the board in a variety of ways should keep Michigan State on alert.

Quarterback Luke Altmyer is a key player for Illinois’ offensive success. The former Ole Miss transfer has provided the Illini with stability and playmaking ability under center. Altmyer took over as Illinois’ starting quarterback last season, throwing for 1,883 yards and 13 touchdowns in just nine games. In 2023, his development has continued, with Altmyer passing for 1,893 yards, 16 touchdowns, and only two interceptions through the first nine games. His ability to limit turnovers—something that plagued him last season with 10 interceptions—has been a crucial factor in Illinois’ offensive improvement.

While Altmyer has proven capable as a passer, Illinois’ offense is built around its strong running game. The Illini feature a stable of talented running backs who help maintain a balanced attack. Three running backs on Illinois’ roster have over 50 carries, which speaks to the team’s commitment to running the football and rotating backs to keep fresh legs on the field. The leader of the Illini backfield is Josh McCray, a powerful and bruising back who has rushed for 330 yards and four touchdowns this season. McCray’s size and physicality make him a difficult back to bring down, and his ability to grind out tough yards will be critical in wearing down opposing defenses, including Michigan State’s front seven.

Complementing McCray’s power running style is the receiving threat provided by Pat Bryant, Illinois’ leading receiver. Bryant has 582 yards and seven touchdowns on the season, and his ability to win one-on-one matchups downfield makes him a potential game-changer. With his solid size, speed, and strong hands, Bryant has started to gain attention from NFL scouts, as he possesses the physical tools necessary to be a big-play threat for the Illini. His connection with Altmyer has been crucial for Illinois’ passing game, and his ability to stretch the field can open up opportunities for other receivers and the running backs as well.

The Illini offense, though not statistically elite, has players capable of creating mismatches that could give Michigan State problems. The Spartans, led by head coach Jonathan Smith in his first meeting with Illinois, will have to be cautious about underestimating the Illini’s potential. Despite their relatively pedestrian offensive numbers, Illinois has a group of players that can strike quickly if given the opportunity. Michigan State’s defense, which will need to find ways to contain both the run and the pass, cannot afford to lose focus or allow the Illini to dictate the tempo of the game.

Looking at the matchup through a broader lens, Illinois’ offensive balance has been one of the reasons for the team’s success in 2023. The ability to run the ball with power and complement that with a capable passing attack gives Illinois a dimension that other teams in the Big Ten often struggle to contain. Against a Michigan State defense that has been inconsistent at times, the Illini’s combination of physical running and timely passing could cause problems.

Additionally, Illinois’ offensive line has been solid this season, providing Altmyer with the time he needs to survey the field and find his playmakers, while also opening up lanes for McCray and the other running backs. Illinois has maintained an effective offensive rhythm by mixing up their attack and taking what the defense gives them. The versatility of their offense means that Michigan State will need to be disciplined in both their run and pass defense, adjusting on the fly to counter Illinois’ approach.

However, Illinois has also faced challenges this season. Despite their strong moments, the offense has sometimes struggled against top-tier defenses, and their struggles to consistently control the line of scrimmage in certain games have led to subpar performances. If Michigan State can disrupt Illinois’ offensive rhythm early on, particularly in the run game, it could force the Illini into a one-dimensional attack, which might play into the Spartans’ hands. Disrupting Altmyer’s timing and putting pressure on him could be key to limiting Illinois’ explosive potential.

For Michigan State, coming off a bye week and seeking a rebound after a disappointing loss, this game presents a significant challenge. The Spartans’ defense will need to be prepared for the full complement of Illinois’ offense, which includes a strong running attack and a capable passing game. If Michigan State can execute their defensive game plan well—whether by disrupting the Illinois offensive line, putting pressure on Altmyer, or keeping McCray from breaking free on long runs—they may be able to limit the Illini’s scoring opportunities and create turnovers.

On the other hand, Michigan State’s offense, which has been inconsistent at times this season, will need to keep pace. With the Illini showing an ability to put up points in bunches, the Spartans can’t afford to fall behind early. Michigan State will need to find a rhythm in the passing game, while also maintaining a solid running game to control the clock and keep Illinois’ offense off the field. A balanced offensive attack will be crucial if the Spartans are to stay competitive in this game.

Ultimately, while Illinois may not be putting up top-tier offensive numbers, the team’s ability to move the ball effectively and capitalize on its playmakers’ strengths makes it a dangerous opponent for Michigan State. The Illini have a good mix of offensive balance, with a strong running game, an emerging passing attack, and a defense that has been opportunistic. Michigan State will need to be disciplined and aggressive in their defensive approach, and the Spartans’ offense will need to capitalize on every opportunity.

For Illinois, this game represents another chance to prove that their offense is capable of competing at a high level in the Big Ten, and with talented playmakers like Altmyer, McCray, and Bryant, the Illini have the weapons to do just that. With Michigan State looking for a bounce-back victory and Illinois hoping to build on a successful season, this matchup promises to be a hard-fought and intriguing battle on both sides of the ball.