3 Biggest X-Factors for Oregon to Defeat Illinois

The Oregon Ducks are getting ready for a massive game this weekend, as they travel to take on the Illinois Fighting Illini.

Oregon is coming off a win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers last week, with the team needing a late game miracle to get the victory. But the Ducks did come away with the win, moving to 4-2 on the season, with them going 2-1 in Big Ten Conference play.

Illinois will be entering the game with a record of 3-3 for the season, fresh off an overtime win against Michigan State. The Fighting Illini have a sneaky good offense, and this is something that the Ducks will need to be careful of.

Kickoff for the game between the Ducks and Fighting Illini is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. PT/3:00 p.m. ET at the University of Illinois Gies Memorial Stadium.

Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for the Ducks to take down Illinois this week:

1. Dylan Raiola Establishes an Early Rhythm

Raiola will be starting this game for the Ducks, giving him another opportunity to prove himself to the program. After being the hero a few weeks ago against USC, Raiola was benched last week against Nebraska before entering in the fourth quarter to save the team.

The backup signal-caller has a lot of talent, but he does need to get going early on to set the tone for the himself in a game. Against Illinois, if Raiola can get some easy passes completed to start, it could set him up to have a strong game, leading the Ducks to a win.

2. Contain the Running Game of Illinois

The Fighting Illini have a very physical run game, and they try to use it to impose themselves against opponents. Oregon is going to have to make sure to stack the box, not allowing this group to get going at all.

The Ducks' defensive front has helped carry the team in the last few weeks, and they will be called upon again here. If Oregon can limit the running attack of the Fighting Illini, they will give themselves a better chance to win.

3. Don't Overlook Illinois

While the Ducks aren't the top team that they entered the season as, this game could be a trap for them. Oregon has games against two ranked teams following this contest, offering them a potential chance to get back into the playoff race.

But this Ducks team can't overlook the Fighting Illini, especially with the game being played on the road. Oregon has a lot of talent, but they have been exposed at times this season so far.