In their previous meeting , the Buckeyes defeated Illinois 17 -- 7 , during the 2011 season , winning the Illibuck trophy for the fourth consecutive season .
Ohio State entered their annual matchup with Leaders Division foe Illinois undefeated and ranked sixth in the AP Poll .
In Ohio State 's previous meeting , the Ohio State Illinois Illinois 17 -- 7 , during the 2011 season , winning the Illibuck trophy for the fourth consecutive season .
Ohio State entered their annual matchup with Leaders Division foe Illinois undefeated and ranked sixth in the AP Poll .