1. BIG-GAME GABBERT

MU quarterback Blaine Gabbert's starting debut last year was a Heisman-worthy performance. He completed 25 of 33 passes for 319 yards and three touchdowns in MU's 37-9 romp. With Illinois' defensive backfield in flux, he could have another big day unless the Illini craft a plan to keep MU off-kilter. Two-man rush, anyone?

2. ILLINI GROUND GAME

Illinois might be best served if it can put together some sustained drives with its running game to keep the ball out of Gabbert's hands. Bruising running backs Mikel LeShoure and Jason Ford have a tendency to wear down defenses with a combined 465 pounds of force. Look for each of them to get carries throughout the game.

3. THE TIGER ATTACK

With receiver Danario Alexander having moved on and tailback Derrick Washington permanently suspended after a felony sexual assault charge, MU has thousands of yards to make up. Tailbacks Kendial Lawrence and De'Vion Moore seek to replace Washington, and look for Jerrell Jackson, T.J. Moe and Michael Egnew to be the most productive receivers.

4. SPECIAL EFFECTS

Special teams always figure in this game, most notably Jeremy Maclin's fireworks. MU's Grant Ressel returns after missing one field goal last season, and Mizzou seeks to maintain its punt game while shoring up returns and coverage. Illinois has a solid kicking game on both fronts with kicker Derek Dimke and punter Anthony Santella, but the return game needs help.

5. MARTEZ & FRIENDS

The Illinois pass rush was lethargic in 2009, and the Illini gave Gabbert a lot of time to throw. With a revamped defense, linebacker Martez Wilson expects the Illini to have more chances to get to the QB, and making Gabbert even a little uncomfortable would help the defense.

Vahe Gregorian and Stu Durando