Illinois running back Kaden Feagin missed Saturday’s matchup against Purdue due to an injury sustained during practice. Head coach Bret Bielema revealed that Feagin hyperextended his left leg during a drill on Tuesday. Bielema expressed concern about the injury’s severity, saying, “Right when it happened, it didn’t look great.”
Feagin underwent an MRI on Wednesday, and Bielema indicated that the injury might keep him sidelined for some time. “We’re consulting with two or three doctors, literally from coast-to-coast on how to handle it. It’s kind of a unique injury,” he added.
Before his injury, Feagin was the leading rusher for Illinois this season with 67 carries for 306 yards and three touchdowns, in addition to five receptions for 37 yards.
Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer commented on Feagin’s absence during the radio broadcast, saying, “Not ideal for Kaden to be out. You hate to see anybody get hurt.” However, he expressed confidence in the team’s depth at running back, highlighting Josh McCray’s performance during the game. McCray stepped up in Feagin’s absence, carrying the ball 16 times for 81 yards and scoring two rushing touchdowns. He also contributed three receptions for 46 yards and one touchdown.
Illinois triumphed over Purdue 50-49 in overtime, bringing their overall record to 5-1 and their Big Ten record to 2-1.