CHAMPAIGN, Ill.- Illinois kicker James Olano‘s 35-yard field goal as time expired secured a thrilling 34-32 victory over No. 21 USC on Saturday, marking a important bounce-back win for the No. 23 Illini. The comeback victory prevented what would have been a potentially devastating loss and reignited Illinois’ season, opening up possibilities for the remainder of the year. According to metrics,this win stands as one of the Illini’s best under head coach Bret Bielema against a premier program.
The Illini offense operated effectively, despite two fumbles.The offensive line, heavily criticized after a poor showing at Indiana and inconsistent play through the first four games, delivered its strongest and most physical performance of the season. Bart Miller’s group cleared the way for 4.9 yards per carry and allowed only two tackles for loss against a talented USC defensive front.
Key Game Statistics:
* Total Yards: Illinois 502,USC 490
* Rushing Yards: Illinois 171,USC 126
* USC Scoring Drives (70+ yards): 5
* Red Zone Efficiency: USC 5-for-5,Illinois 2-for-4
* Third Down Conversion: USC 8-for-14,Illinois 6-for-10
* Tackles for Loss: Illinois allowed 2
* Sacks: Illinois allowed 1
* turnovers: Both teams had 2
The Illini defense limited USC to 126 rushing yards (3.7 yards per carry), holding the Trojans – who averaged 252.3 rushing yards through their first four games – well below their season average. Outside of the second half against Indiana, the illini defensive front has held four of its five opponents under 130 rushing yards.
Looking ahead:
Illinois will travel to Purdue for an 11 a.m. CT kickoff on Saturday at Ross-Ade Stadium for the latest Cannon Trophy rivalry game. Illinois defeated Purdue 50-49 in overtime last season, ending a four-game losing streak to the Boilermakers, but Purdue has won 15 of the last 20 matchups. Purdue, now under head coach Barry Odom, is 2-2 overall and 0-1 in Big Ten play following losses to USC (33-17) and Notre dame (56-30). ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) currently gives Illinois a 71% chance to win at purdue.
