The Fighting Illini (5-1) open Big Ten play in a matchup of two of the conference's early defensive leaders.

Rutgers and Illinois pride themselves on their defense and rebounding, which makes this opener a perfect pairing.

The Illini get it done by pacing the country in field-goal defense (34.0 percent), while the Scarlet Knights rank right behind at 34.6 percent.

Both teams are getting stellar seasons from their best players.

Terrence Shannon Jr., an absurdly athletic wing in his second season since transferring from Texas Tech, averages 19.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists while shooting 43.9 percent from 3-point range.

Rutgers big man Cliff Omoruyi has produced 11.7 points, 9.2 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game.

Tipoff is at 3:00 this afternoon.