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Penn State could face first test against Illinois

Sep 27, 2008 - 10:07 AM (21) Illinois (2-1) at (12) Penn St (4-0), 8:00 pm EDT

STATE COLLEGE, Pennsylvania (Ticker) -- Penn State's offense has been virtually unstoppable so far this season, averaging 52.8 points in the Nittany Lions' first four games.

However, 12th-ranked Penn State could face its first significant test Saturday when it hosts No. 21 Illinois in the Big Ten Conference opener for both teams.

Last Saturday, the Nittany Lions (4-0) were blanked in the opening quarter for the first time this year, but they erupted for 31 points in the second period and coasted to a 45-3 victory over Temple.

Penn State's offense has been so efficient that the Nittany Lions' 211 points is a school record through four games. In addition, they have scored 40 or more points in four consecutive contests for just the second time under coach Joe Paterno and the first time since midway through the 1973 season.

The Nittany Lions rushed for 303 yards against Temple, the second time they have eclipsed the 300-yard mark on the ground this season. Freshman Stephfon Green ran for 132 yards, surpassing the century mark for the first time.

After four blowouts, Paterno sounded like he is ready for an upgrade in competition.

"Illinois, well, obviously we're going to have a tough time with them," he said. "I think the kids are anxious to get into it (conference play). I'm anxious to get into it so I can see what kind of football team we have."

Penn State will be looking to avenge last season's 27-20 loss at Illinois, which defeated a ranked opponent for the first time since 2001. The Fighting Illini, who were coming off five straight losing campaigns, used the victory over Penn State as a springboard to a 9-3 regular season and a berth in the Rose Bowl.

Juice Williams had a quiet game for Illinois last year, completing 14-of-20 passes for just 120 yards and two interceptions. However, the Illini intercepted Penn State's Anthony Morelli three times.

After allowing 549 yards in a season-opening 52-42 loss to Missouri, the Illini (2-1) posted a 47-21 win over Eastern Illinois of the Football Championship Subdivision.

However, Illinois was unimpressive in a 20-17 victory over Louisiana-Lafayette on September 13 and used a bye week to try to work out some of the kinks.

"It's more important to take care of your football team than actually begin to prepare for Penn State," Illinois coach Ron Zook said.