Champaign, IL
Sep 2, 2023
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In a captivating season opener, the Illinois Fighting Illini edged out the Toledo Rockets with a narrow 30-28 victory. Illinois wasted no time, with Josh McCray crossing the goal line on a 1-yard run in the first quarter. Toledo answered with a field goal by Luke Pawlak, and shortly before halftime, a touchdown pass from DeQuan Finn to Jerjuan Newton put the Rockets ahead.
The second half was a rollercoaster of emotions, as Illinois’ defense stepped up. Miles Scott's pivotal interception returned for a touchdown ignited a comeback. Luke Altmyer connected with Pat Bryant for two touchdowns, spotlighting his quarterbacking prowess. Despite DeQuan Finn’s valiant efforts, including a critical rushing touchdown, Caleb Griffin's game-winning 29-yard field goal as the clock wound down sealed the victory for Illinois, demonstrating their resilience and determination.
Josh McCray (Illinois Fighting Illini)
McCray's 1-yard rush set the tempo for Illinois, providing an early momentum boost and establishing their ground game.
Luke Pawlak (Toledo Rockets)
Pawlak's 27-yard field goal was Toledo's first score, showcasing his reliability in the special teams unit.
DeQuan Finn (Toledo Rockets)
Finn's 15-yard touchdown pass to Newton right before halftime exemplified Toledo's balanced offensive attack, capitalizing on big plays.
DeQuan Finn (Toledo Rockets)
Finn extended Toledo's lead with a 9-yard pass to Boone, demonstrating his ability to execute under pressure.
Miles Scott (Illinois Fighting Illini)
Scott’s interceptive return for 48 yards brought Illinois back into contention, electrifying the crowd and shifting momentum.
Luke Altmyer (Illinois Fighting Illini)
Altmyer's precise 9-yard pass to Bryant reclaimed the lead for Illinois, highlighting his composure and accuracy under duress.
DeQuan Finn (Toledo Rockets)
Finn’s 1-yard rushing touchdown epitomized his dual-threat capability and gave Toledo a fleeting late-game lead.
Caleb Griffin (Illinois Fighting Illini)
Griffin’s 29-yard field goal in the final seconds clinched the win, illustrating his clutch kicking ability under immense pressure.
Luke Altmyer (Illinois Fighting Illini, QB)
Altmyer’s dual-threat capabilities were on full display, tallying 211 passing yards and 69 rushing yards, anchoring Illinois’ offense with crucial scores.
Pat Bryant (Illinois Fighting Illini, WR)
Bryant’s 6 receptions for 64 yards and 2 touchdowns were central to Illinois' comeback, emphasizing his role as a dependable playmaker.
Miles Scott (Illinois Fighting Illini, DB)
Scott's pivotal interception and 48-yard return for a touchdown shifted the game’s momentum, highlighting his defensive prowess.
DeQuan Finn (Toledo Rockets, QB)
Finn showcased his versatility by accounting for three touchdowns—two passing and one rushing—while accumulating 230 passing yards and 75 rushing yards.
Luke Pawlak (Toledo Rockets, K)
Pawlak's perfection on three field goals, including a 44-yarder, demonstrated his reliability and consistency in scoring opportunities.
Toledo Rockets vs. Illinois Fighting Illini - Final Score - September 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
Griffin's Last-Minute Field Goal Secures 30-28 Illini Win Over Toledo in Season Opener - University of Illinois Athletics
2023 MAC Football Week 1 Game Recap: Illinois Fighting Illini 30, Toledo Rockets 28 - Hustle Belt
Toledo Rockets vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Live Score and Stats - September 2, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Toledo Rockets
3
9
7
9
28
Illinois Fighting Illini
7
0
13
10
30
