Illinois leads, wins for the first time in 2020

After almost 16 quarters of play in the 2020 season, the Illini have now secured their first lead and win of the year.

A Nate Hobbs interception, the Illini’s third takeaway of the game, led to James McCourt booting a 47-yard field goal through the uprights for the win.

Isaiah Williams has led the Illini back from behind. After a few tough drives early, Williams got into a rhythm with his legs and led Illinois to four scoring drives in the second half — would be six if James McCourt did not miss two field goals.

Williams had just 104 yards passing, but contributed with 190 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Williams is now the all-time leader in rushing yards by an Illini quarterback in a single game.

Chase Brown joined Williams over 100 yards, as the running game was the key to the Illini’s offensive success today.

With three seconds to play in the fourth quarter the Illini got their first lead and the Illini beat the Scarlet Knights 23-20.