Illinois achieved a significant milestone by clinching a 31-24 overtime victory against Nebraska in a thrilling matchup between ranked teams in Lincoln on Friday night. This win marks the Orange and Blue as the first team in the nation to secure two victories over AP Top 25 opponents this season and improves their record to 4-0 for the first time since 2011.
Quarterback Luke Altmyer was instrumental, completing 21 of 27 passes for 215 yards and four touchdowns, including the decisive touchdown to Pat Bryant in overtime. Altmyer’s performance featured passes to nine different receivers, exemplifying the team’s offensive depth.
Pat Bryant made a crucial impact with five receptions for a team-high 74 yards and two touchdowns, marking his third multi-touchdown game of the season. Running back Kaden Feagin led the ground game with 12 carries for 69 yards.
Defensively, the Illini produced a season-high five sacks, three of which occurred in overtime, effectively stifling Nebraska’s attempts to score.
The game commenced with Illinois striking first, scoring a touchdown with a 27-yard pass from Altmyer to Bryant. Nebraska later surged ahead, but the Illini responded with a field goal, concluding the first half down by just seven at 17-10.
Illinois showcased resilience in the second half, coming back to tie the game at 17-17 and subsequently leading 24-21 with a touchdown pass. However, Nebraska equalized before regulation ended, pushing the game into overtime.
In the extra period, the Illini efficiently moved into the red zone on just two plays, culminating in a touchdown by Bryant, bringing the score to 31-24. A commanding defensive performance by Illinois followed, as they sacked Nebraska’s quarterback on the first two plays to secure the victory.
Looking ahead, No. 24 Illinois (4-0, 1-0 B1G) prepares to face No. 10 Penn State on the road on September 28, with kickoff time yet to be determined.
This victory marks notable achievements for the program, including being only the second team to start 4-0 since 1951 and the first to have two AP Top 25 wins in a single season since 2007. Coach Bret Bielema commended the team’s efforts and emphasized the importance of continued hard work as they move forward into the upcoming challenges.