September 29, 2012 at 11:33 AM

Quarterbacks

Nathan Scheelhaase and Reilly O'Toole present an interesting challenge for the Penn State defense. Scheelhaase is a dual-threat and O'Toole has demonstrated solid pocket presence to this point, meaning the Nittany Lions could see a wide range of looks that could cause some problems. But Penn State has Matt McGloin, the conference's leading passer and a fifth-year senior. He led the drive that put Penn State ahead of Illinois late in the game last season at Beaver Stadium and has a veteran presence that gives the Lions a solid edge at the position this year. Advantage: Penn State

Running backs

Penn State’s running back situation is not really clear. Bill Belton, Derek Day and Curtis Dukes are all expected to return from injuries this week, which should give the Lions more bodies than they've had recently. However, none of them have really played much, nor did they have a whole lot of success when they did. Illinois hasn't been much better on the ground, but has a little more stability in Josh Ferguson and Donovonn Young, who have combined for 325 yards and two touchdowns this season. Advantage: Illinois

Wide receivers

Penn State has Allen Robinson and his 29 receptions for 404 yards and five touchdowns through four games. Illinois does not. The Lions don't have a whole lot of depth behind him, though. Beyond slot receiver Alex Kenney, no Penn State wideout has more than two receptions this season. The Fighting Illini, meanwhile, have four receivers with at least five catches. Ultimately, though, Robinson's game-breaking capabilities give Penn State the edge. Advantage: Penn State

Tight end

Penn State's Kyle Carter has 16 catches for 190 yards and a touchdown this season. Illinois tight ends Fritz Rock and Jon Davis have nine combined catches, representing all of the Illini tight ends’ offensive production. The Lions also have Matt Lehman, Garry Gilliam and Jesse James in the mix, which should allow them to earn a pretty solid edge in this department. Advantage: Penn State

Offensive line

O'Toole, Scheelhaase and third-string Illinois quarterback Miles Osei have combined to complete 70.6 percent of their passes, and O'Toole has passed at an impressive 78.1 percent clip, showing Illini quarterbacks have had plenty of time to throw. McGloin hasn't faced much pressure either, though, and both teams have yet to find its stride in the run blocking game. These two lines are pretty evenly matched, the advantage likely decided by which team picks up the other's pass rush better. Advantage: Push

Special teams

Illinois kickers Taylor Zalewski and Nick Immekus have combined to make all of their extra point attempts and 3-4 field goal, while Sam Ficken's struggles are well documented. Penn State has had a little more success in the punt return game, while Illinois has been a little better in the kick return game. This adds up to what should be a distinct Illinois edge, one that could prove critical if this game comes down to a kick or two. Advantage: Illinois