Illinois @ North Carolina preview

Illinois has been dominant in the first two games after experiencing preseason adversity, but the competition gets much tougher against host North Carolina on Saturday. Coach Tim Beckman was fired one week before the opener, and the Illini responded by outscoring a pair of opponents 96-3 as they prepare for an experienced ACC squad.

North Carolina senior quarterback Marquise Williams faces an Illinois defense that boasts five interceptions and has not given up a touchdown in back-to-back games for the first time since 1988. Williams, who needs 92 yards to reach 7,000 in total offense for his career, recovered from a three-interception performance to throw two TD passes in a 53-14 win over North Carolina A&T last Saturday. Junior Wes Lunt owns 19 touchdown passes and just four interceptions with the Illini, who can start with three victories for the first time since 2011. “We got our work cut out for us, but it’s going to be fun,” Illinois interim coach Bill Cubit told reporters. “I think our kids are going to be really excited about going down there and seeing exactly where we’re at.”

TV: Noon ET, ESPN2. LINE: North Carolina –9.5

ABOUT ILLINOIS (2-0): Cubit had the Illini sharp on both sides of the ball in victories over Kent State and Western Illinois with Lunt leading the way, throwing five touchdown passes and totaling 478 yards through the air. Josh Ferguson (115 yards rushing, 63 receiving) keys the ground attack while Geronimo Allison has caught 10 passes for 181 yards and a score. Illinois, which Cubit said has to be ready for a high-tempo North Carolina offense, has allowed 193 yards per game so far and defensive back Taylor Barton boasts three interceptions.

ABOUT NORTH CAROLINA (1-1): Williams completed 34 of his 51 passes in the first two games for 443 yards – giving him 5,336 in his career to place fourth on the school’s all-time list. The Charlotte native might have the best set of weapons he has had since arriving in Chapel Hill with receivers Bug Howard (eight receptions-151 yards), Ryan Switzer (nine-103) and Quinshad Davis (eight-92) to go along with running back Elijah Hood (194 yards rushing). Linebacker Jeff Schoettmer and safety Donnie Miles (18 tackles each) lead the defense.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Davis has 21 touchdown receptions, needing one to break the tie with Hakeem Nicks (2006-08) for the school record.

2. Ferguson is seven yards shy of becoming the 17th Illinois player to rush for 2,000 in his career.

3. The Tar Heels have won the only two meetings (1971 and '87), and the teams will meet in Illinois next season.

PREDICTION: North Carolina 27, Illinois 21