Illinois Claims Seventh Victory, Hands Maryland Sixth Straight Defeat
In a dominating performance, the University of Illinois football team edged out the University of Maryland 24-6, securing its seventh win of the season. The Illini's Luke Altmyer led the charge, throwing for 172 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for an additional 62 yards.
Altmyer's counterpart in Maryland quarterback Malik Washington struggled to find his footing, completing just 25 out of 46 passes for 238 yards. Despite Washington's efforts, Illinois' defense proved too much to handle, limiting the Terrapins to a meager six points.
Illinois coach Bret Bielema praised his team's performance, stating that their complementary play on both offense, defense, and special teams was key to their victory. The Illini's offensive line also received high praise from Bielema, who noted that players like Ca'Lil Valentine and Kaden Feagin continue to take steps forward in their development.
Maryland coach Michael Locksley, on the other hand, expressed frustration with his team's lackluster performance, which has seen them lose six straight games. The loss has put pressure on new athletics director Jim Smith to evaluate Locksley's tenure and make any necessary changes.
Illinois will look to build on their winning streak when they take on Wisconsin next Saturday. The Illini are well-positioned to reach a 9-3 record, which would mark the program's highest win total since the 2011 season. Meanwhile, Maryland will face off against top-ranked Michigan in a crucial matchup that could determine the Terrapins' fate for the remainder of the season.
In a dominating performance, the University of Illinois football team edged out the University of Maryland 24-6, securing its seventh win of the season. The Illini's Luke Altmyer led the charge, throwing for 172 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for an additional 62 yards.
Altmyer's counterpart in Maryland quarterback Malik Washington struggled to find his footing, completing just 25 out of 46 passes for 238 yards. Despite Washington's efforts, Illinois' defense proved too much to handle, limiting the Terrapins to a meager six points.
Illinois coach Bret Bielema praised his team's performance, stating that their complementary play on both offense, defense, and special teams was key to their victory. The Illini's offensive line also received high praise from Bielema, who noted that players like Ca'Lil Valentine and Kaden Feagin continue to take steps forward in their development.
Maryland coach Michael Locksley, on the other hand, expressed frustration with his team's lackluster performance, which has seen them lose six straight games. The loss has put pressure on new athletics director Jim Smith to evaluate Locksley's tenure and make any necessary changes.
Illinois will look to build on their winning streak when they take on Wisconsin next Saturday. The Illini are well-positioned to reach a 9-3 record, which would mark the program's highest win total since the 2011 season. Meanwhile, Maryland will face off against top-ranked Michigan in a crucial matchup that could determine the Terrapins' fate for the remainder of the season.