Nov. 24--Has Illinois convinced you yet?
Probably not, but the 16-14 victory against Penn State on Saturday was a highlight in a mostly dismal season for the Illini.
Some big plays -- on offense, defense and special teams -- saved the day.
Offense: B-
Statistically there weren't fireworks. Only 283 total yards, just 68 rushing yards and one touchdown. But backup quarterback Reilly O'Toole did enough to help the Illini win, relieving struggling Wes Lunt. Receiver Mikey Dudek had 11 catches for 115 yards.
Defense: A-
Jihad Ward was huge with two sacks. The Nittany Lions led in the fourth quarter, but they never got in rhythm. Illinois allowed only 265 yards of offense for Penn State, keeping an opponent under 300 yards for the first time this season. The unit allowed only 93 passing yards.
Special teams: A
Kicker David Reisner came up huge. His confidence didn't waver after he missed a 50-yard field-goal attempt, and he calmly kicked the game-winner from 36 yards out. He had made only one field goal in three attempts entering the game. He connected on three to beat the Nittany Lions.
Coaching: B+
Switching to O'Toole was the correct and decisive move. If the Illini had lost, many would have questioned whether coach Tim Beckman should have attempted the 50-yard field goal. But he put faith in the kicker and it eventually paid off.
