Patrick Pierson Director of Football Branding and Creative Media | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Patrick Pierson Director of Football Branding and Creative Media | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Illinois running back Aidan Laughery has been recognized as the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week, according to an announcement made by the conference office on Monday.
Laughery achieved career-highs by rushing for 172 yards and scoring three touchdowns, leading Illinois to a 38-28 victory over Northwestern at Wrigley Field. His touchdowns came from runs of 64, 31, and 30 yards, with an average of over 14 yards per carry.
His first touchdown put Illinois ahead with a score of 7-3. The subsequent touchdowns extended the Illini's lead to two possessions during the second half.
Laughery is noted as the third player this season in a Big Ten game to achieve over 170 rushing yards and three or more touchdowns. This feat was previously accomplished by Kaleb Johnson from Iowa against Minnesota and Tawee Walker from Wisconsin against Rutgers. Additionally, Laughery is among three Power-4 players this season who have rushed for an average of over 14.0 yards per carry on more than ten carries. Bhayshul Tutten from Virginia Tech versus Boston College and Jalen Milroe from Alabama against LSU also achieved this milestone.
Following their win over Northwestern, Illinois concluded the regular season with a record of 9-3 overall and 6-3 in the Big Ten. The team is currently ranked No. 21 in both the AP Top 25 and Coaches Poll.
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