Sturdy's Game Preview: Northwestern

By Brad Sturdy - IlliniGuys Insider/Analyst & Co-Host, IlliniGuys Sports Spectacular

January 14, 2026

(Cover photo courtesy Illinois Athletics)

The Illini are headed up I-57 to take on the Northwestern Wildcats in the battle for Illinois supremacy against a struggling squad that is 0-5 in Big Ten play. The Illini are 3-0 on the road and this will be their 4th road contest in their first 6 Big Ten games.

Here's a look at the particulars:

Setting the Stage
#13 Illinois (13-3, 4-1 B1G) at Northwestern (8-8, 0-5 B1G)
Wednesday, Jan. 14 . . .

 

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549 Illini Portal Kombat Wins with Steve Sturm

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548 Illini Strangle Penn State 73-65

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547 Portal Kombat Day 1 & CFP Thoughts

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546 - Illini Beat Tennessee in Music City Bowl

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