Illinois vs Ohio State head-to-head: position-by-position star ratings, experience, and composite grades on CFB Matchup. They meet Week 4, Saturday, September 26, 2026.
The Breakdown
#1 Ohio State's 70 composite tops Illinois' 60, driven by 4.7★ receivers facing a 3.0★ secondary.
When Illinois has the ball: 2.7★ receivers with 3.7 years still face Ohio State's 4.0★ secondary; Devin Sanchez is 5★.
When Ohio State has the ball: Jeremiah Smith and Chris Henry Jr headline a 4.7★ receiver room overwhelming Illinois' 3.0★ secondary.
Swing factor: Julian Sayin, 5★ and two years, versus Katin Houser — 4★ transfer with four seasons.
X-factor: Late-September Saturday road trip into Ohio Stadium; Illinois must survive the Horseshoe crowd early.