Ohio State football (5-0) is deservedly the top-ranked team in the nation, and its smothering, top-ranked defense is a major reason why. The Buckeyes have allowed only 25 points and gave up just two touchdowns through their first five games this season. Although the defending national champions have only played one ranked opponent to this point, they have achieved that incredible statistic with a slate featuring Texas and two Big Ten teams. They will face an Illinois offense averaging 37.0 points per game, so a bolstered front-seven could increase the chances of the program keeping yet another opponent under double digits.

Senior edge rusher Kenyatta Jackson is expected to be active against the Fighting Illini on Saturday, per On3's Pete Nakos. He exited last weekend's 40-3 win over

See Full Page