Illinois vs Northwestern Picks and Predictions for Wednesday, January 14, 2026

By: Cameron Ross Published 01/14/2026, 10:10 AM ET

Illinois vs Northwestern Information

The Illinois Fighting Illini will be on the road Wednesday night for an 8:30 PM matchup against the Northwestern Wildcats in Illinois. Illinois is the 13th-ranked team in the nation, with 13 wins and 3 losses this season, following a long winning streak after a six-point road victory against Iowa in their last outing. The Northwestern Wildcats return home Wednesday night with eight wins and eight losses, currently winless in conference play after losing four of the last five, including three in a row, following a 2-point overtime road loss to Rutgers. Stay in the news with our College Basketball Picks.

Illinois Preview

Offensively, Illinois has been stout this season, averaging 86 points on 48% shooting from the floor. Defensively, Illinois is allowing 67.4 points per game this season through 16 games and has allowed an average of 58.4 points per game over its last five wins. Keaton Wagler leads the Illinois offense this season, averaging 15.7 points and 3.8 assists per game. Kylan Boswell is second on the roster, averaging 14.7 points, and Andrej Stojakovic is third on the team, averaging 14.5 points per game. Big man David Mirkovic averaged 12.4 points to go along with the team-leading 8.6 rebounds.

Northwestern Preview

The Northwestern offense has been mediocre this season, scoring 79.1 points on 48% from the floor. Defensively, Northwestern is allowing 71.2 points per game this season through 16 games. Nick Martinelli leads the Northwestern offense this season, averaging 24.1 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. Arrinten Page is second on the team, averaging 14.1 points, and Trey Singleton is 4th on the team, averaging 7.1 points per game. Jayden Reid averages 10.9 points and leads Northwestern, dishing out 5.6 assists.

Illinois vs Northwestern Prediction

Illinois is a better team in this matchup, playing good basketball coming into Wednesday. Look for the Illini to overwhelm a bad Northwestern team start to finish Wednesday night. Take Illinois to extend their winning streak on Wednesday night as they get the win and cover on the road in Illinois. Final Score Prediction, Illinois Fighting Illini win and cover 78-63.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions

Best Picks:

Illinois Fighting Illini ATS
Under

How To Bet This Matchup

Before placing a wager on this matchup, it’s essential to approach the betting process strategically by leveraging available incentives. Starting with current sportsbook promos can help you identify platforms offering risk-free bets or deposit matches. Comparing the best betting sites ensures you’re getting fair odds and a secure betting environment. Bettors looking for mainstream sportsbook exposure often turn to BetMGM, where a Betmgm bonus code can provide extra wagering power on spreads, totals, or props. Those seeking lower vig and peer-to-peer style markets may prefer Novig, especially when using a Novig promo code. If you’re betting casually or experimenting with new strategies, free betting apps are an excellent way to stay involved without upfront risk. Social sportsbooks like Thrillzz gain added appeal when paired with a Thrillz promo code, while many bettors also supplement their action with Sweepstakes casino bonuses to enjoy legal, prize-based gaming alongside traditional sports bets.

Betting on College Basketball?

Join Picks and Parlays premium for free and get a free $30 coupon with code FREE30
Get started and wager on college hoops today with our favorite online sportsbooks
Claim a CBB betting bonus offer with the best sportsbook promos