The Illinois Fighting Illini are an elite team. They took a while to find a groove but appear as one of the best teams in the tough Big Ten after winning six of the first seven conference games. Their only conference defeat of the season came in double OT against Purdue. Maryland is underachieving right now. They were ranked early in the season but are struggling. They have only earned one win in their last six games overall.

Furthermore, the Fighting Illini have better adjusted offensive and defensive numbers. They are averaging 116.7 points per 100 possessions comported to only 106.9 from Maryland. The Terrapins are only shooting 42.7% and they will have a challenge putting up points against this squad.

Even without Cockburn who is expect out for Illinois tonight they have great guards who should find easy buckets vs a weak Maryland team.