Penn State may be favored big against Illinois but, if it wants to win, it still needs to dominate its matchups. Here are the key matchups to Friday night’s game that we think fans should keep a closer eye on:
John McGonigal: Illinois RB Mike Epstein vs. Penn State’s front-four
James Franklin said the Nittany Lions are familiar with Mike Epstein, and they should. If you flip on Illinois film, it’s hard to miss No. 26.
Epstein — who led Illinois in rushing last year as a true freshman despite missing the final seven games of the season due to a foot injury — slowly worked his way back into a groove this season.