Chambana Sun

The Illinois wrestling team, ranked 10th nationally, is preparing for a significant challenge as they face the second-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes in their first Big Ten road match of the season. The dual meet is scheduled for Friday, January 17 at 6 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.

Illinois wrestler Lucas Byrd has achieved the top ranking at 133 pounds according to WIN Magazine. Byrd boasts an impressive 11-0 record this season, including recent victories over Ohio State's Nic Bouzakis and Northwestern's Massey Odiotti.

Jason Kraisser, ranked 20th at 157 pounds, also had a successful weekend with wins against Ohio State's Paddy Gallagher and Northwestern's Jacob Bostelman. Meanwhile, Edmond Ruth secured victories over Ohio State's Ryder Rogotzke and Northwestern's Matthew Kubas.

The Iowa Hawkeyes have maintained a perfect record this season with seven wins and no losses in dual meets. Their latest performance was a dominant victory over Wisconsin with a score of 45-0. Historically, Iowa leads the series against Illinois with a record of 54-26-1.

Lucas Byrd continues to excel with an unbeaten record in both overall matches and Big Ten duals. His achievements include six decision wins and four major decision victories. Other notable performances from Illinois wrestlers include Braeden Scoles leading the team in falls and dual points, Luke Luffman tied for second in dual points, Jason Kraisser third in dual points, Zac Braunagel fourth in dual points, Kannon Webster fifth in dual points with the fastest fall among starters, and Edmond Ruth maintaining a perfect Big Ten dual record alongside Byrd and Kraisser.