Start week 9 Weather forecast and playing conditions

Oregon fans have a saying: “It never rains in Autzen Stadium.” And while it’s cute, it’s also a lie. Don’t believe us. Just wait until Saturday when No. 20 Illinois (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten) travels to Eugene to take on the No. 1-ranked Ducks (7-0, 4-0 Big Ten).

After the Illini enjoyed a pair of nice fall Saturdays in their last two games – both in Champaign – they head west this weekend. Unfortunately, the friendly weather conditions will not make the trip.

For the Illinois faithful making the long trip to the Pacific Northwest, flights on Thursday and Friday should not be at risk of weather delays (fingers crossed). In fact, no rain is forecast for the four days leading up to Saturday – almost certainly some kind of record-breaking streak for Eugene.

But as far as game day goes, Ducks coach Dan Lanning’s squad should feel right at home amid what is expected to be a light but steady rainfall starting in the morning and lasting through the afternoon. With a high of 62 degrees and a southwesterly wind at 5 to 10 mph, the rain should be Mother Nature’s only effect here.

With a Heisman candidate in quarterback Dillon Gabriel and a top-20 passing attack, the Ducks rely heavily on their aerial attack. Does this mean circumstances have to be in the Illini’s favor?

Unfortunately, no. The Ducks, as we would probably expect, are comfortable in the wet stuff. In this case, the weather – especially when combined with the blistering noise of the crowd – only gives the Ducks the edge. However, if heavier rain starts to fall, the matchup might turn into an old-fashioned Big Ten basher, which could even the odds a bit for the Illini.

Either way, it will be parka weather in Eugene on game day. With kickoff set for 2:30 PM CT, the Illini will have to bring their A-game (and likely more) to keep the Ducks from dampening their College Football Playoff hopes.

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