When Michigan came out in the second half Saturday and began shoving Northwestern backward with its running game, the Wolverines were sending a message–to Illinois. The Illini have a smallish offensive line, averaging less 300 pounds per man and lack a classic big running back. But sophomore Pierre Thomas leads the Big Ten in rushing average (6.6 yards per carry) and is third in all-purpose yards per game (144.4), behind Northwestern’s Noah Herron (147.2) and Michigan’s Michael Hart (150.5).
“Defensively, we didn’t play our best against Michigan’s power running play,” NU linebacker John Pickens said. “Illinois runs the same play, so I’m sure we’ll see a lot of repetitions this week” . . .
Cornerback Jeff Backes (ankle) was limited to three plays at Michigan and the hope is he will be able to play more this week. Left tackle Trai Essex was hobbled by a right-foot contusion and left the Michigan game but is expected to play against the Illini.
