Who will be Illinois' top rusher in 2025?
Josh McCray • 25%
Aidan Laughery • 25%
Other Illinois player • 25%
No player exceeds 500 yards • 25%
Official NCAA and Illinois player statistics for the 2025 season
No. 21 Illinois Defeats No. 14 South Carolina 21-17 in Citrus Bowl for First 10-Win Season Since 2001
Dec 31, 2024, 11:32 PM
No. 21 Illinois secured a 21-17 victory over No. 14 South Carolina in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, marking the Illini's fifth 10-win season in program history and their first since 2001. The game, which took place in Orlando, was characterized by a back-and-forth battle with five lead changes. Illinois running back Josh McCray was pivotal in the win, scoring two touchdowns, including the game-winning 9-yard run in the fourth quarter. McCray also sealed the victory with a 60-yard run on a third-and-two play from the 15-yard line. The Illini's defense played a crucial role in the final minutes, stopping South Carolina on a fourth-down attempt at the 7-yard line. McCray's performance was highlighted by a season-high 114 rushing yards on 13 carries. Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer contributed with a touchdown pass to Zakhari Franklin, while receivers Hank Beatty and Aidan Laughery made significant contributions with Beatty catching four passes for 90 yards and Laughery rushing for 67 yards on 16 carries. South Carolina's quarterback LaNorris Sellers completed 24 of 34 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown. The victory not only ended Illinois' three-game bowl losing streak but also showcased the team's resilience and potential under coach Bret Bielema.
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1000-1500 yards • 25%
1501-2000 yards • 25%
Over 2000 yards • 25%
Under 1000 yards • 25%
Kaden Wetjen • 25%
Brendan Sullivan • 25%
Kamari Moulton • 25%
Other • 25%
Josh McCray • 25%
Luke Altmyer • 25%
Pat Bryant • 25%
Other • 25%
Transfer Player • 25%
Luke Altmyer • 25%
Backup QB • 25%
Incoming Freshman • 25%
Other • 25%
Luke Altmyer • 25%
Josh McCray • 25%
Pat Bryant • 25%
Penn State's top rusher • 25%
Another Penn State player • 25%
Ashton Jeanty • 25%
Another Boise State player • 25%
Player A • 25%
Player B • 25%
Other • 25%
Player C • 25%
Oregon Ducks player • 25%
No player scores more than one touchdown • 25%
Tie between players from both teams • 25%
Penn State player • 25%
Dallan Hayden • 25%
Other • 25%
Miyan Williams • 25%
Quinshon Judkins • 25%
No player exceeds 100 rushing yards • 25%
Ohio State player other than Henderson • 25%
TreVeyon Henderson • 25%
Opponent player • 25%
Other • 25%
Christian McCaffrey • 25%
Derrick Henry • 25%
Saquon Barkley • 25%
Rahmir Johnson • 25%
Other • 25%
Kwinten Ives • 25%
Emmett Johnson • 25%