Nov. 30--Illinois lived to play another day.
The Illini put on a performance Saturday in their 47-33 victory against Northwestern that made the progression from the start of the Big Ten season to the end easy to judge.
The defense was stronger than ever. The offense was on fire.
Offense
A+ Quarterback Reilly O'Toole proved he deserved the starting job this week with three touchdown passes. He also rushed for 147 yards. The Illini looked strong running the ball with Josh Ferguson (95 yards) and Donovonn Young (51 yards). It deserves to repeated that the offensive line is missing two starters to injury.
Defense
A- Sure, the Illini gave up 33 points. But it took Northwestern into the third quarter to surpass 100 total yards. They forced Zack Oliver into three interceptions and they recovered two fumbles.
Special teams
D David Reisner missed a field goal and an extra point. The Illini allowed Northwestern to return a kickoff 89 yards for a touchdown. Punter Justin DuVernois had another solid performance, averaging 42.3 yards on five punts.
Coaching
A The Illini looked their best in a game that was a must-win to become bowl-eligible. Credit coach Tim Beckman and his staff for keeping the team believing when it would have been easy to fold. Giving the ball to O'Toole as a starter was the right call.
