URBANA — The Fighting Illini football team will host the University of Maryland this Saturday afternoon at Gies Memorial Stadium and honor all those who served and are currently serving in the military.
The stadium was originally built in 1923 to remember those who fought in the First World War. After receiving a $100 million donation by University of Illinois alum Larry Gies earlier this year, it was renamed to Gies Memorial Stadium. This was to honor and recognize his father, Larry Gies Sr., who was also a U.S. Army veteran, and all other veterans.
Illinois head coach Bret Bielema said that he will bring veterans and those currently in the military to Saturday’s game to honor them. The University of Illinois’ ROTC will rappel off of Gies Memorial Stadium before Saturday’s Illini walk.
During the first timeout of the game, there will be an Army swearing-in ceremony for all recruits on the field as well.
This is the third meeting in the last four years and the fourth meeting overall. Illinois will try to get its second win in November, while Maryland is still looking for its first win since September.
Illinois: For the Illini, they are looking to end the season off strong. Bielema said that he reminded his team that just because they were able to end last year with a winning streak, it doesn’t mean it will be the same and any easier this year.
Although Illinois’ record favors over Maryland, the Illini have to be at their best to stop the Terrapins. Illinois’ defense is going to be tested in multiple ways. They are going to have to stop the run game and pressure the quarterback immediately to not allow the Terrapins’ quarterback, Malik Washington, to get comfortable. In order for Illinois to move up in these Bowl game projections, they are going to have to put on a strong performance against Maryland.
Maryland: This season has been tough for the Terrapins’ so far. After starting 4-0 on the season, they are currently on a five-game losing streak heading into this week’s game. In order for Maryland to take command of this game, their defense is going to have to make a statement. Illinois’ fast-paced offense is when they are at its best. If Maryland can avoid Illinois getting to that flow, then it can create opportunities to force turnovers and get back on offense. With 17 interceptions and 24 sacks on the season so far, the Terrapins are capable of turning this game in their favor and turning their season around.
This could very well be one of those defensive games where the winning team barely scores 20 points. Illinois can not be fooled into thinking this will be an easy game. Statistically, Maryland is a similar team to Illinois, and it can come down to the final drive.
The Illini and Terrapins will kick off Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at Gies Memorial Stadium.