T.M. Selection: Illinois.

I like Illinois to cover the spread against Maryland on Friday. Illinois is 1-2 this season but that 1 win came at the start of the season in a conference game against their Big 10 opponent Nebraska. Illinois was at home for that game and came in as the underdog coming out of the game with the 8 point win. Their offense did not play great in their last game against UVA but that one was on the road. So far, Illinois is 1-1 at home but has managed to put up a good fight in each game scoring 30 points in both. The game they lost at home to UTSA was by 7 points which is what the spread is in this game currently. Maryland is 2-0 but have not really faced any tough competition yet. This will be their 1st conference game of the year, not only that but, this will also be their 1st road game of the year as well. Illinois has already shown that they can play well at home and against these conference opponents. Maryland has been good this season but are here in their 1st conference game and their 1st road game as well. Give me the points with the home team as Illinois will cover this spread in a close game.

T.M. Prediction: 30-27 Maryland.