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How to Watch Michigan vs. Illinois: TV Channel and Time for the Big Ten Power Struggle
By Craig Dudek
Published:
A massive Top-10 showdown is taking center stage in the Big Ten, and the stakes are huge. The No. 3 Michigan Wolverines are crossing state lines to challenge the No. 10 Illinois Fighting Illini in Champaign. This is shaping up to be a defining moment in the race for conference dominance. Head coach Dusty May’s squad is riding a strong 25-2 campaign, though they’re looking to bounce back after slipping from the No. 1 ranking. On the other end, Brad Underwood’s Illini (22-6) are defending their home court with the tenacity of a team that refuses to back down.
For those of us following the matchups and the stats, this is the marquee event of the week. Whether you’re invested in the outcome or just want to see 2 elite programs clash, you need the right info to tune in. This guide breaks down the logistics—tip-off times, venue details, and the broadcast on FOX—so you can catch the action live.
When is Michigan vs. Illinois? What time does the game start?
The event is scheduled for February 27, 2026.
- Date: February 27, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM ET (7:00 PM CST)
Where is Michigan vs. Illinois?
The Michigan Wolverines will travel to Champaign, IL to face the Illinois Fighting Illini. The game takes place at the State Farm Center, the Illini’s stronghold. As the visiting team, Michigan is looking to secure a victory in hostile territory as the regular season winds down.
How can I watch Michigan vs. Illinois?
This pivotal Big Ten conference matchup is being broadcast nationally on FOX. If you want to see if the Wolverines can cover the spread or if the Illini will upset the odds, tune in to your local FOX affiliate to catch the game live.
- TV Channel: FOX
How can I stream Michigan vs. Illinois?
If you’ve cut the cord and prefer to stream online, you have several options since the game is on FOX.
Viewers with a valid subscription can stream the Michigan vs. Illinois matchup directly through the network’s digital platforms.
For those without a traditional cable package, the game is accessible through major live TV streaming services that carry the FOX network, including FuboTV, which offers FOX as part of its channel lineup. Users can stream the Michigan vs. Illinois game live on FuboTV by signing up for a subscription or starting a free trial at fubo.tv. Check your local listings to ensure availability in your region.
Who will win Michigan vs. Illinois?
Here is where we look at the odds to see where this game is expected to land. Based on current consensus moneyline odds, here is the breakdown for the matchup.
| Team | Win Probability |
|---|---|
| Michigan Wolverines | 58.2% |
| Illinois Fighting Illini | 46.3% |
According to the betting lines, the visiting Michigan Wolverines are the favorites to close the deal in Champaign. With moneyline odds set at -139, the Wolverines hold an implied win probability of roughly 58.2%. The Illinois Fighting Illini are listed as home underdogs at +116, translating to a 46.3% chance to secure the win.
The spread is razor-thin at just 1.5 points, signaling a tightly contested game that could go either way.
Here’s the market for Illinois-Michigan, via Kalshi:
Creative Manager and Writer at Sportradar. Craig has previously worked as a camera operator and video director in radio and television, as well as a content coordinator in the non-profit sector.