CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Interstat) — The Illinois Fighting Illini, riding high after a dominant win over a rival, will look to close their non-conference schedule on a high note when they host the struggling Southern Jaguars on Monday afternoon at State Farm Center. Illinois (9-3) enters the contest fresh off a 91-48 demolition of Missouri on Dec. 22, a performance that showcased its defensive intensity and offensive balance. The Fighting Illini have won three of their last four, with the lone loss an 80-83 setback to Nebraska. A key to their success has been the play of guard Keaton Wagler, who is coming off a 22-point, 4-assist effort against Missouri and has averaged 20 points and 6 assists over his last four games. Southern (4-8) faces a steep challenge, having lost five straight games, all on the road. The Jaguars are coming off a 111-67 defeat at Baylor on Dec. 21. Their schedule has been arduous, with recent losses to Texas, Texas State and California Baptist. A bright spot in the lineup has been guard Malek Abdelgowad, who scored 19 points against Baylor and has averaged 17.8 points per game over his last four contests. The matchup pits one of the Big Ten’s top teams against a Jaguars squad seeking a signature win before entering Southwestern Athletic Conference play. Illinois has been strong at home, boasting a 5-1 record in Champaign with an average margin of victory of 31 points in those wins. Southern, conversely, has yet to win a true road game this season (0-7). For Illinois, this game serves as a final tune-up before opening Big Ten play at Penn State on Jan. 3. Southern will continue its lengthy road trip at Alcorn State on Dec. 31. The Fighting Illini hold a distinct advantage in size, depth and recent performance, making them heavy favorites to extend the Jaguars’ road woes. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. EST Monday at the State Farm Center.