What an insane day for the Illinois football program, as we snatched a victory away from the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.
The Illini didn’t play well in this game. We looked disjointed for much of the contest, but somehow, we were still within striking distance. That is what gave me hope.
Toward the end of the game, hope was dwindling, though. Illinois looked to be down and out, but that is when the skies parted and the Football Gods shined down. One miraculous throw led to an even better catch and run for the game-winning touchdown. Illinois ended up winning an incredible game over Rutgers, 38-31.
Here are five massive observations from the Illinois football win over Rutgers
1. Pat Bryant might be a superhero
I have talked about Pat Bryant numerous times throughout the season. He is a special player with talent that is rare for the Illinois football program.
On Saturday, Bryant took that rare talent and did something I didn’t think was possible. He impressed me even more and took his game to another level.
Bryant finished the Rutgers game with seven receptions for 197 yards and a touchdown. That stat line alone is incredible, but even at that, I don’t think it does him justice.
The 197 yards by Bryant accounted for all but 52 yards Illinois had through the air. He also accounted for all but five of the completions from Luke Altmyer.
The icing on the cake for Bryant’s incredible day was the final offensive play of the game for the Illini. On 4th and 13, he got space and caught a ball over the middle. It wasn’t a catch in stride, though. He had to go from zero-to-60 quickly, and Bryant managed to get a good angle and outrun the entire Rutgers’ secondary.
In the last two weeks, Bryant has gone back-to-back career highs. His previous career-high was against Michigan State last weekend when he hit 135 yards. Getting to the 197-yard mark blew his previous career high out of the water. This kid isn’t a great player, he is a superhero at wide receiver.