Illinois Tops Rutgers 38-31 in Thriller

The No. 19 Illinois women's basketball team secured a 75-55 victory over Maryland Eastern Shore, improving their record to 6-0, with standout performances from several players, especially leading scorer Makira Bryant, who tallied a season-high 27 points. In football, Illinois clinched a dramatic 38-31 win against Rutgers with a last-second touchdown pass from Luke Altmyer to Pat Bryant, who scored with just four seconds remaining, marking a thrilling finish to the game. This victory brought Illinois to an 8-3 record for the season, as they scored 23 points in the last quarter alone, overcoming a late-game deficit. Both teams demonstrated resilience, with the women's basketball team maintaining a strong lead throughout, while the football team executed a series of crucial plays in the final moments to secure their win. Illinois coach Bret Bielema praised Bryant's awareness and decision-making that led to the game-winning touchdown. As the season progresses, both teams look to build on their successes as they head towards the postseason.