Champaign, IL
Sep 14, 2024
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The Illinois Fighting Illini triumphed over the Central Michigan Chippewas with a commanding 30-9 victory on Saturday, marking the Illini’s best start since 2011. Luke Altmyer headlined the offensive effort, completing 19 of 29 passes for 242 yards and two touchdowns, both to Pat Bryant who amassed 102 yards on seven receptions. The Illini’s scoring was punctuated by a program-record 59-yard field goal from Ethan Moczulski to end the first half.
Central Michigan’s struggles in the red zone were apparent, plagued by penalties and missed opportunities. Despite outgaining the Illini in several drives, the Chippewas managed only three field goals, two of which were from inside the 20-yard line. Illinois’ defense was resilient with stellar performances from Gabe Jacas and Dennis Briggs Jr., who continued to pressure CMU’s quarterback Joe Labas, leading to crucial turnovers. The systematic and balanced attack from the Illini and their steadfast defense sealed their 30-9 victory.
Luke Altmyer (Illinois)
On a fourth-down gamble, Luke Altmyer found Pat Bryant for an 11-yard touchdown, capping a 12-play drive and giving Illinois a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter.
Tristan Mattson (Central Michigan)
After a holding penalty nullified a touchdown, Central Michigan's Tristan Mattson kicked a 32-yard field goal to cut the lead to 7-3.
David Olano (Illinois)
Ethan Moczulski hit a record-setting 59-yard field goal just before halftime, extending Illinois' lead to 13-6. This also set a new program record for the longest successful field goal.
Pat Bryant (Illinois)
Altmyer and Bryant linked up again, this time for a 20-yard touchdown early in the third quarter, pushing the score to 20-6 and widening the lead.
David Olano (Illinois)
Olano capped a methodical, penalty-ridden drive with a 34-yard field goal, extending Illinois' lead to 23-6 late in the third quarter.
Dennis Briggs Jr. (Illinois)
Briggs Jr. sacked Central Michigan’s quarterback Joe Labas, halting their offensive progression and energizing the Illini defense in the third quarter.
Kaden Feagin (Illinois)
Kaden Feagin rushed for a 2-yard touchdown following a successful onside kick recovery, putting the final points on the board and sealing the game with a 30-9 win.
Luke Altmyer (Illinois, QB)
Showcased strong leadership, completing 19 of 29 passes for 242 yards and two touchdowns. His connection with Pat Bryant was pivotal in securing the victory for Illinois.
Pat Bryant (Illinois, WR)
Stellar performance with 7 receptions for 102 yards and two touchdowns. His playmaking ability provided momentum and crucial scoring for the Illini.
Ethan Moczulski (Illinois, K)
Set a new program record with a 59-yard field goal, energizing the team and extending the lead at a critical juncture in the game.
Gabe Jacas (Illinois, LB)
Anchored the Illinois defense with a versatile game, recording six solo tackles, two tackles-for-loss, and a crucial sack, constantly pressuring the Central Michigan offense.
Dennis Briggs Jr. (Illinois, DL)
Proved to be a disruptive force on the defensive line with three solo tackles and a key sack, helping to neutralize Central Michigan’s offensive threats.
Tristan Mattson (Central Michigan, K)
Displayed reliability by scoring all of Central Michigan’s points with three field goals, highlighting his accuracy under pressure.
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Central Michigan Chippewas
3
3
0
3
9
Illinois Fighting Illini
7
6
10
7
30
