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What a fun day that was.
Illinois was again an underdog against a Minnesota team that was young but talented. AJ Bush was returning from injury, but there wasn't much optimism for a win this Dad's Day weekend for the Illini.
The game started innocuously enough, a one-yard run by sophomore running back Reggie Corbin. And then this happened:
Reggie Corbin 72-yd TD pic.twitter.com/mc4iGhCGxM
— IllinoisLoyalty (@IllinoisLoyalty) November 3, 2018
And then this:
Followed closely by this:
.@IlliniFootball has 3 TDs so far today, and all 3 have been at least 65+ yards.
— Illinois on BTN (@IllinoisOnBTN) November 3, 2018
This burst from @SuccessfulRicky makes it a two-score game again. pic.twitter.com/N1q2apUTzX
It was one of those games you dream of if you're Illinois. Gashing runs, huge plays. Reggie Corbin, lost man of the offense last year, posted one of the best statistical seasons for a running back in Illinois history. This game was the centerpiece of his resurgence. It was a joyful moment in a season sparse with them.
No other play encapsulated that joy than this run, one of the best of the year:
You get a long touchdown run, you get a long touchdown run, everybody gets a long touchdown run!@JuicedUpReg sits at 185 rushing yards on the day. pic.twitter.com/Rtg0uX7NDT
— Illinois on BTN (@IllinoisOnBTN) November 3, 2018
Just watching that play makes Illinois fans smile. AJ Bush with his arms raised, Corbin probably yelling "Get outta the way!", hanging 45 (eventually 55) on a conference rival who you've been competing against for recruits. It was a culmination of good timing (Minnesota fired its defensive coordinator after this game) and the talent of Reggie Corbin on full display.
He ended the day with 13 carries for 216(!) yards and two touchdowns. It was the brightest point of an otherwise miserable season. No wonder P.J. Fleck looked dejected all game. It's nice to see that from an opposing coach for a day, at least.
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