CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Illinois capped off an upset win over USC in dramatic fashion with a walk-off field goal on Homecoming weekend.
Ranked 23rd, Illinois hosted No. 21 USC for their Big Ten home debut. The weekend, highlighted by Homecoming celebrations and an REO Speedwagon reunion, saw the game emerge as the standout attraction.
By halftime, Illinois led 14-10, though the score could have been wider if not for Kaden Feagin’s contentious fumble in the red zone. Feagin later redeemed himself by scoring a 64-yard touchdown reception, extending the Illini’s lead in the third quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Illinois led by 14 points, but another red zone fumble allowed USC to score twice, leaving the Illini behind 32-31 with less than two minutes remaining.
A decisive drive powered by the Illini’s strong running game set the stage for David Olano’s game-winning 41-yard field goal, which led to Illinois fans storming the field. This win was pivotal for the Illini, especially after their 53-point loss to Indiana in their conference opener, marking the largest defeat in the Bielema era.
With an overall record of 4-1 and 1-1 in Big Ten play, Illinois is now focused on securing consecutive victories as they prepare to face Purdue in West Lafayette next Saturday.
