Illinois State vs Villanova Prediction: 2025 FCS Semifinals

This wasn’t exactly the FCS Semifinal that everybody was expecting. 

Villanova rolled to this spot after going on an 11-game winning streak following a 1-2 start. The offense has been fine, but it’s the defense that took control along the way, including in a 26-21 comeback win over Tarleton State. 

Illinois State survived the UC Davis passing game to get here, but it was the 29-28 stunner over North Dakota State – with 15 unanswered points in the final three minutes – that changed everything for the 2025 FCS Playoffs.

Illinois State vs Villanova: FCS Semifinal Preview and Pick

Aug 31, 2024; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Illinois State Redbirds quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse (16) warms up before the game against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Kinnick Stadium. © Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

How To Watch Illinois State vs Villanova

Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025
Game Time: 7:30 pm ET
TV: ESPN2
Location: Villanova Stadium, Philadelphia, PA
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Why Illinois State Will Win

Again, the defense has to continue to take over games. 

UC Davis quarterback Caden Pinnick kept throwing, but but the Redbirds were well ahead – the 42-31 final score was way closer than the game. The defense did its job when it mattered.

The style works. The offense is good on third downs thanks to a good offensive line and a strong running game to take the heat off of everyone else.

There might be a few too many turnovers, and no, the defense isn’t a brick wall, but it has a way of rising to the moment. The Redbirds will be behind the Wildcat line on a regular basis, but …

Sep 13, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Villanova Wildcats head coach Mark Ferrante walks on the field prior to the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. © Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images

Why Villanova Will Win

That Illinois State defense might rise up when needed, but it gives up a whole bunch of first downs. It’s a bend-but-don’t-break bunch, but it usually holds up. That’s fine – the Wildcats need to take the time off the…

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Publish date : 2025-12-20 04:13:00

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