The No. 24 Illinois Fighting Illini triumphed over No. 22 Nebraska 31-24 in overtime during their Big Ten opener at Memorial Stadium. This marks Illinois' first 4-0 start since 2011.
Quarterback Luke Altmyer shone, completing 21 of 27 passes for 215 yards and four touchdowns, including a decisive 4-yard touchdown pass to Pat Bryant in overtime. Bryant had five catches for 74 yards and two touchdowns.
Nebraska's Dylan Raiola also had a strong performance, throwing for 297 yards and three touchdowns but struggled in overtime, getting sacked three times, including the final play by Dylan Rosiek, sealing the Illini's victory.
The game unfolded with Illinois battling back after trailing 10-7 at the end of the first quarter. Key moments included a 6-yard touchdown pass to offensive lineman Brandon Henderson to tie the game, and a missed field goal by Nebraska's John Hohl that kept the game tied in the closing minutes.
Final score: Illinois 31, Nebraska 24 (OT).
