Illinois at Ohio State

Saturday, October 17, 1981. Ohio State kept the Illibuck

Ohio State beat Illinois 34–⁠27. It was their 70th meeting; after it, Ohio State led the series 47–⁠19–⁠4 as played.

AwayIllinois7–⁠4 in 1981
27
HomeOhio State9–⁠3 in 1981
34

FinalHigh 68°F, low 34°FAttendance 87,158

Before kickoff

Our ratings going in

Our ratings (scores only)

Ohio State 76% to win. Elo’s favorite won.

Officially, Ohio State leads 70–⁠30–⁠4; as played, 71–⁠30–⁠4 in 105 meetings, counting the 35 since this game.

Recent meetings
2026Ohio State 42, Illinois 19
2025Ohio State 34, Illinois 16
2017Ohio State 52, Illinois 14
2015Ohio State 28, Illinois 3
2014Ohio State 55, Illinois 14
2013Ohio State 60, Illinois 35

Around this game