Illinois vs. Wisconsin: Game Preview, Prediction

By RantSports Staff
Wisconsin Basketball
Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports

Matchup: Illinois Fighting Illini (17-8) vs. Wisconsin Badgers (22-2)

You know what the Fighting Illini could use right about now? A win against the Badgers. Sure, Illinois has been on a roll lately, winning four in a row, but beating Wisconsin would be the ultimate — well, at least in the Big 10.

Unfortunately, the Badgers have only lost two games on the season and one game in conference play. The Fighting Illini will also have to travel on the road.

Needless to say, although Illinois has a great chance at making the 2015 NCAA tournament, it needs a huge win.

What to Watch For

Rayvonte Rice has been leading the charge for Illinois this year, but Malcolm Hill is right behind him in the scoring department. Not to mention, Rice missed quite a bit of time, but made his return against the Michigan Wolverines last game.

Frank Kaminsky and Sam Dekker are two of the best players in the country and they aren’t alone. When it comes to talent and experience, the Badgers have both.

Prediction

Make no mistake about it: Illinois has been on a roll. Unfortunately, Wisconsin is the much better team, and may not lose another game during the regular season. Heck, it could end up in the Final Four for the second straight year.

The Fighting Illini should give the Badgers a tough challenge, but Kaminsky will prove to be too much to handle. Wisconsin will win its eighth game in a row, which will do Illinois no favors when it comes to the Big Dance.

Illinois 65, Wisconsin 77

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