Illini Upend Nebraska in Overtime Thriller to Extend Historic Start

Luke Altmyer's heroics and a stout defensive stand in overtime propelled No. 24 Illinois to a thrilling 31-24 victory over No. 22 Nebraska, marking the Illini's first 4-0 start since 2011 and their third consecutive triumph in Lincoln.

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Illini Upend Nebraska in Overtime Thriller to Extend Historic Start

**Champaign, Ill.** - Luke Altmyer's arm and the Illinois defense led the way as the Illini rallied from a fourth-quarter deficit to defeat Nebraska in overtime, extending their remarkable start to the 2022 season.

Altmyer orchestrated a nine-play, 75-yard drive late in regulation, culminating in a six-yard touchdown pass to tackle Brandon Henderson, who hauled in his first career reception. The score knotted the game at 24-24 with just over 10 minutes remaining.

Nebraska's offense struggled to produce in the waning moments of regulation, punting once and missing a field goal, sending the contest into overtime.

In the extra period, Kaden Feagin's 21-yard run set the stage for Altmyer's game-winning toss to Pat Bryant, a four-yard strike that gave Illinois a 31-24 advantage.

Nebraska's subsequent possession turned into a nightmare as Dylan Raiola was sacked three times, the last of which ended the game and sealed the Illini's victory.

Altmyer completed an efficient 15 of 24 passes for 194 yards and four touchdowns, while Nebraska's Raiola went 23 of 35 for 284 yards and three touchdowns.

The Illini's triumph marks their first win over two ranked opponents in the same season since 2007. It also snaps Nebraska's 25-game losing streak against Top 25 teams since 2016.

The Cornhuskers extended their dismal record in one-possession games to 8-31 since 2018, while Illinois improved to 3-1 in such contests this season.

The victory was especially sweet for Illinois, which had not defeated Nebraska in Lincoln since 1999. It also spoiled the Cornhuskers' celebration of their 400th consecutive sellout at Memorial Stadium.

The Illini's defense was a force throughout the game, forcing three turnovers and sacking Raiola five times. Linebacker Seth Coleman recorded a game-high 11 tackles, while Kendall Smith and Sydney Brown had interceptions.

Illinois' offense, meanwhile, continued to show balance, with Feagin rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown, while Chase Brown added 71 yards on the ground.

The Illini's 4-0 start is their best since 2011, and they will look to extend their winning streak when they host Wisconsin next Saturday. Nebraska, meanwhile, will try to rebound at home against Indiana.