Maryland vs. Illinois Picks and Prediction for Saturday, November 15, 2025

By: Jake Allman Updated 11/15/2025, 12:18 AM ET

Illinois looks to keep pace in the Big Ten West race when the Fighting Illini host Maryland at Memorial Stadium in Champaign. Kickoff is set for 3:30 PM ET on FS1, with the home team entering as 14.5-point favorites. The Terrapins have dropped five straight, while Illinois has taken three of its last five to move to 6-3 on the year. Get the edge this weekend with our free college football picks backed by data and trends.

Maryland Analyzed

Maryland’s season has unraveled since its early wins, with turnovers and inconsistent quarterback play stalling drives. Malik Washington has thrown for 1,958 yards with 12 touchdowns, but he’s also tossed five interceptions during a stretch that’s seen the Terps fail to score more than 24 points in any of the last four. The run game hasn’t provided much relief, as DeJuan Williams leads with only 302 rushing yards on 88 carries. Shaleak Knotts has been Washington’s top target, hauling in 26 passes for 421 yards and five touchdowns. Maryland has been competitive at times, but late-game execution continues to haunt them, especially against physical Big Ten defenses.

Illinois Analyzed

Illinois has stabilized behind quarterback Luke Altmyer, who’s been efficient with 19 touchdowns and just four picks through nine games. The Illini have been more balanced offensively, leaning on Kaden Feagin’s 396 rushing yards and five scores to control tempo. Wideout Hank Beatty has become Altmyer’s most reliable option, leading the team with 730 yards on 49 receptions. On defense, linebacker Gabe Jacas anchors the unit with 6.5 sacks, while Matthew Bailey has chipped in 50 tackles from the secondary. This group has forced timely stops in recent wins, including holding Rutgers to just 13 points in the last outing.

Maryland vs Illinois Pick

Maryland’s slide suggests another uphill battle, especially on the road against a confident Illinois team that has found consistency on both sides of the ball. The Illini’s offensive balance should keep Maryland’s front seven on its heels, while the defense limits Washington’s ability to attack downfield. With the Terrapins struggling to protect the ball and Illinois thriving at home, the matchup sets up for a comfortable cover.

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Prediction: Illinois 34, Maryland 17