Maya Green Director of Recruiting Operations | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Maya Green Director of Recruiting Operations | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
No. 22 Illinois will conclude its regular season with a matchup against Northwestern at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Saturday, November 30th, at 11 a.m. CT. The game will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.
Illinois enters the game with an 8-3 overall record and a 5-3 mark in the Big Ten. They are coming off a dramatic 38-31 victory over Rutgers, where Luke Altmyer connected with Pat Bryant for a decisive touchdown in the final seconds. Bryant achieved a career-high of 197 receiving yards during the game.
Northwestern, holding a 4-7 record (2-6 Big Ten), returns to Wrigley Field after a recent loss to Ohio State and a defeat by Michigan. Illinois aims to reclaim the Land of Lincoln Trophy from Northwestern, who won last year's meeting in Champaign.
The series between Illinois and Northwestern dates back to 1892, with Illinois narrowly leading it at 57-55-2. The teams have faced each other annually since 1927.
Broadcast duties for the game will be handled by Chris Vosters, Matt Millen, and Kylen Mills on Big Ten Network. On radio, Brian Barnhart, Carey Davis, and Michael Martin will provide coverage via the Busey Bank Illini Sports Network.
This marks Illinois' third appearance at Wrigley Field; their last visit was in 2010 when they defeated Northwestern with notable performances from Mikel Leshoure and Nathan Scheelhaase.
Illinois is bowl eligible for the second time in three seasons under head coach Bret Bielema. Bielema has led the team to significant achievements including four fourth-quarter comeback wins this season.
Key players include quarterback Luke Altmyer and wide receiver Pat Bryant. Altmyer's performance has been highlighted by his TD/interception ratio, while Bryant leads in receiving touchdowns within the Big Ten.
On defense, Aaron Henry's unit ranks well nationally in several categories including scoring defense and forced fumbles. Gabe Jacas is noted for his contributions in sacks and forced fumbles.
The special teams unit features kicker David Olano and punter Hugh Robertson among others making significant impacts this season.
As both teams prepare for their upcoming clash at Wrigley Field, Illinois seeks to strengthen its standing within college football while reclaiming regional bragging rights against their long-time rivals.
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