Three takeaways & three stars from Illini's 20-17 walk-off win at Maryland

247Sports • October 31, 2026 • sports

Key Points:

Illinois secured a 20-17 victory over Maryland with a 26-yard game-winning field goal by kicker Ethan Moczulski, echoing a similar walk-off win three years prior.
Quarterback Katin Houser, returning just 19 days after hand surgery, threw for 223 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, leading Illinois to its third consecutive win.
Wide receiver Collin Dixon recorded six catches for 103 yards, marking his fourth 100-yard game of the season despite some key drops.
Running back Javari Barnett contributed 80 rushing yards, including a crucial 64-yard touchdown run that gave Illinois the lead in the fourth quarter.
Illinois' defense was pivotal, forcing two red zone turnovers in the first quarter and five punts in the final three quarters, helping secure the win.