No. 24 Illinois secured a thrilling 31-24 overtime victory against No. 22 Nebraska on Friday night, thanks in large part to Luke Altmyer’s four touchdown passes, including a crucial toss to Pat Bryant in overtime.
With this win, Illinois improves to a 4-0 record and 1-0 in Big Ten play, marking their first 4-0 start since 2011 and their first season with two ranked victories since 2007. This victory also extends their winning streak against Nebraska in Lincoln to three games, interrupting celebrations for Nebraska’s 400th consecutive sellout at Memorial Stadium.
Illinois head coach Bret Bielema expressed pride in his team’s ability to control the stadium’s atmosphere, noting, “We did think if we could turn this into a four-quarter game it would play to our advantage. I wasn’t mad when it did go to overtime.”
Nebraska’s struggles continued, as they fell to 3-1 overall and 0-1 in the Big Ten. The Cornhuskers have now lost 25 consecutive games against ranked opponents since 2016 and hold a dismal record of 8-31 in one-possession games since 2018.
The second half saw both teams exchanging touchdowns, culminating in a 75-yard drive by Illinois that leveled the score at 24. Altmyer connected with offensive tackle Brandon Henderson for a touchdown on a fourth-and-2 play, marking Henderson’s first career reception.
Nebraska, facing pressure, failed to capitalize on their final two possessions of regulation, resulting in a missed field goal attempt and a punt. As time expired, Illinois and Nebraska entered overtime with the game tied.
In overtime, Kaden Feagin’s 21-yard run set up Altmyer’s four-yard touchdown pass to Bryant. Nebraska’s last chance quickly unraveled as quarterback Heinrich Haarberg was sacked three times, including a decisive one on fourth down.
Altmyer finished the game with 215 passing yards, while Bryant totaled five receptions for 74 yards and two touchdowns. Altmyer’s season performance has been impressive, completing 74% of his passes with 10 touchdowns and no interceptions.
Nebraska’s Haarberg threw for 297 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, while Jahmal Banks had eight receptions for 94 yards. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “We have a lot to learn from this.”
Illinois demonstrated consistency in the red zone, converting all four opportunities, but concerns loom regarding wide receiver Zakhari Franklin’s leg injury.
Nebraska’s ongoing discipline issues were evident, as they committed nine penalties, including three personal fouls, contributing to their frustrations.
As a result of their performance, Illinois is poised to rise in the rankings. Nebraska’s short-lived stay in the Top 25 likely comes to an end after this defeat.
Illinois will next face No. 10 Penn State, while Nebraska prepares to visit Purdue.