TDs
Box score, stats, game summary and more ft. Luke Altmyer
Rutgers Kicking Stats
The game was a back-and-forth affair with both teams showing their offensive prowess. Illinois started slow but picked up the pace in the second half, scoring 23 points in the final quarter to secure the win. Rutgers had a strong showing as well, but ultimately fell short in the end.
Luke Altmyer was the star of the game for Illinois, showcasing his dual-threat ability with both his arm and his legs. He finished with 249 passing yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for a score. His connection with Pat Bryant on the game-winning touchdown pass will be remembered as one of the highlights of the season for the Illini.
On the Rutgers side, quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis had a solid performance with 175 passing yards and two touchdowns. The Scarlet Knights’ offense was led by Isaiah Pacheco on the ground and Shameen Jones through the air.
Overall, it was a thrilling matchup between two bowl-eligible teams that showcased the talent and competitiveness of the Big Ten conference. With the regular season winding down, both Illinois and Rutgers will look to finish strong and secure a favorable bowl game matchup.
Illinois will face Northwestern in their final regular-season game, while Rutgers will take on Penn State in a crucial matchup for both teams. Fans can expect more exciting football action as the season comes to a close.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on college football as the postseason approaches.
The Rutgers football team faced off against Illinois in a thrilling game that came down to the wire. The game saw several lead changes and big plays from both teams, but ultimately Illinois emerged victorious with a last-second touchdown pass.
The first half was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading scores. A missed extra point by Illinois and a 75-yard drive by Rutgers, culminating in a touchdown pass from Athan Kaliakmanis to Ian Strong, gave Rutgers a 17-9 lead heading into halftime.
In the third quarter, Illinois scored a touchdown but missed the two-point conversion, leaving them trailing by two points. The fourth quarter saw both teams exchanging touchdowns before Illinois took the lead with a 30-yard scoring run by Luke Altmyer.
Rutgers mounted a late comeback, with Kaliakmanis connecting with Kyle Monangai for a 13-yard touchdown pass to regain the lead 31-30 with just over a minute left in the game. However, Illinois responded with a 40-yard bomb to Pat Bryant for the game-winning touchdown with only four seconds remaining.
The game ended with Illinois securing a safety on the kickoff, sealing their 38-31 victory over Rutgers. Both teams are now bowl-eligible and look forward to postseason play.
Key moments from the game included a 34-yard field goal by Jai Patel for Rutgers, a 29-yard field goal by David Olano for Illinois, and multiple touchdowns by players on both teams. It was a hard-fought battle that showcased the talent and determination of both squads.
Looking ahead, Illinois will finish the regular season with a trip to Northwestern, while Rutgers will close out their regular season with a matchup against Michigan State. Both teams have shown resilience and skill throughout the season and will aim to finish strong in their respective bowl games.
Overall, the game was a testament to the competitive nature of college football and the excitement it brings to fans. It was a memorable clash between two talented teams that left spectators on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.