Illinois Beats South Carolina 21-17 in Citrus Bowl, Josh McCray's Heroics Lead to 10-Win Season Under Bret Bielema

Dec 31, 2024, 11:28 PM

In a thrilling finish to the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, No. 21 Illinois secured a 21-17 victory over No. 14 South Carolina, marking the Illini's fifth 10-win season and the first since 2001. The game, held at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, saw Illinois' Josh McCray score the decisive touchdown on a 9-yard run in the fourth quarter, following a 60-yard run earlier. The Illini's defense played a crucial role, stopping South Carolina on a critical fourth-down play late in the game. Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer threw for 174 yards and a touchdown, while South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers completed 24 of 34 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown. The win not only ended Illinois' three-game bowl losing streak but also highlighted the team's resilience, having exchanged the lead five times throughout the game. Coach Bret Bielema's team demonstrated its prowess in fourth-quarter comebacks, a trait that has defined their season. South Carolina's Oscar Adaway III contributed significantly, rushing for 69 yards including a 36-yard touchdown run.