Illinois game against No. 19 Iowa became a lot more difficult with Mike Epstein out due to injury.

The senior running back has struggled with injuries throughout his career. He played in all five games for the Illini this year with 338 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

He has triple-digit rushing games in two of his last three games. He is second on the team in rushing yards.

Two weeks ago in Illinois’ last game, he had 113 rushing yards and a touchdown in a win at Nebraska.

The Fighting Illini enter this game with a 2-3 record on the season, while Iowa is 4-2. Both teams are putting winning streaks on the line.