Illinois arrives in Columbus with the same 2–1 record as Ohio State after defeating Southern Illinois 48–10. Quarterback Katin Houser passed for 305 yards and two touchdowns in the win, giving Matt Patricia’s secondary something legitimate to prepare for. The Fighting Illini are still substantial underdogs, but they represent a meaningful step up from Kent State and an opportunity for the Buckeyes to begin conference play by showing measurable improvement.

Ohio State delivered the response it needed against Kent State, but a 59–3 final did not answer every question. This week’s Monday Musings looks at Jeremiah Smith’s record, the emergence of the Buckeyes’ young receivers, the run-game and third-down concerns still lingering, and what the return of the Illibuck means as Big Ten play begins.