The 4-0 Nittany Lions physically dominated Bret Bielema’s Fighting Illini (4-1) at the line of scrimmage. PSU’s defense was also too quick for the visitors’ offensive line.

For coach Bret Bielema and the No. 21 Fighting Illini, Saturday's game will be a chance to assert themselves as a legitimate threat to contend in the Big Ten after a 31-24 overtime win last week against Nebraska. Penn State, No. 8 in the US LBM Coaches Poll, remains a contender for the new 12-team College Football Playoff and in the Big Ten.