Illini Can’t Ride Momentum, Succumb to Rutgers 20-14
By Jeff Mayfield

[November 01, 2021]   The Illinois Fighting Illini seemed lethargic and may have had some jet lag remaining from their big win at Penn State that led to a disappointing 20-14 loss to Rutgers.

The Illini did lead at halftime 14-10 by virtue of two beautiful touchdown passes. The first one a 52-yard strike from QB Brandon Peters to Isaiah Williams and then a 26-yarder to Daniel Barker just before halftime.

Illini QB Brandon Peters passes the ball near his own goal line

Daniel Barker scores a touchdown on a 26-yard pass from Brandon Peters

The latter touchdown pass not only gave the Illini the halftime lead, but allowed them to keep it until the 4th quarter when the Scarlet Knights retook the advantage 17-14.  Eventually, Rutgers tacked on a late field goal. The Illini were able to get to the Rutgers 35-yardline late in the game but were stuffed on 4th down.

With the loss the Illini’s record now stands at 3-6. Illinois will take to the road and play at Minnesota next Saturday at 11am.

[By JEFF MAYFIELD
Photos by Tom Seggelke]

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