Patrick Embleton Executive Director of Personnel and Recruiting | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Patrick Embleton Executive Director of Personnel and Recruiting | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
A last-minute touchdown by Pat Bryant led the University of Illinois to a victory over Rutgers at SHI Stadium. The Fighting Illini, ranked No. 24, secured a 38-31 win with just four seconds left on the clock. Trailing in the final moments, Illinois advanced 75 yards downfield, converting a crucial fourth-and-13 play for the decisive score.
Pat Bryant had an outstanding performance with seven catches totaling 197 yards, including the game-winning touchdown. His contributions were pivotal in Illinois' comeback as he recorded significant yardage in the second half.
Quarterback Luke Altmyer completed 12 passes for 249 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 74 yards and another score. Hank Beatty added to Illinois' offensive efforts with his first collegiate touchdown and notable punt return.
The Scarlet Knights initiated scoring early in the game, but Illinois responded effectively throughout each quarter. The Illini's defense forced turnovers that contributed to their momentum.
Illinois head coach Bret Bielema expressed pride in his team's resilience and credited players like Bryant and Altmyer for their late-game heroics. "Give a lot of credit to our resiliency," Bielema said after the game.
The victory improved Illinois' record to 8-3 overall and 5-3 in Big Ten play. The team is set to face Northwestern next week at Wrigley Field for their regular season finale.
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