Nebraska Football Opponent Preview: Illinois

Biggest Question Mark Heading in 2026

New defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck has proven himself as a successful head coach, but how quickly can he install a new system in the Big Ten? Between implementing a 3-3-5 scheme and replacing significant production along the defensive line, Illinois could be in for an adjustment period this fall.

The Fighting Illini have added five defensive linemen from the Group of Five and FCS ranks. How quickly those additions adjust could be the difference in several conference games.

For a program that's consistently finished near the top of the conference standings under the current regime, that uncertainty is hard to ignore. There's no hiding weaknesses in the Big Ten. Bielema's staff will be tasked with getting that unit to gel. If not, they risk the chance to take a step back in 2026.

My Outlook for the Game

The Fighting Illini have been one of the conference's most formidable home teams over the past two years, posting a 12-2 record in Champaign. Winning on the road will be far from easy for the Big Red.

Even so, this may be Bielema's most vulnerable team. Illinois enters 2026 with a new quarterback, a new defensive coordinator, and significant turnover along the offensive and defensive lines. That doesn't typically lead to success in the Big Ten.

On paper, Nebraska should have every opportunity to win this game. The Huskers appear to have the more talented roster overall, but they'll need to prove they can capitalize on that advantage in a matchup like this. In recent years, the Huskers have struggled to win these games. In year four, that has to change. If NU wants to take the next step, this feels like a game they need to have. Nov. 6 will prove if they're capable of doing just that.