Illini grade: A
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Terry Hawthorne, cornerback, Illinois
The reigning News-Gazette All-State Player of the Year might have made the play of the year, chasing down Michigan's Roy Roundtree on what appeared to be a sure touchdown. The play changed the complexion of the game and possibly Illinois' season.
OFFENSE
Illinois – A
Michigan – D
Finally. That's the firepower fans expected to see this season after racking up 500 yards with two guys – Mikel Leshoure (150) and Jason Ford (128) – going for more than 100 yards and Juice Williams (97) falling just short.
DEFENSE
Illinois – B
Michigan – F
It was more of a bend-but-don't-break defense for Illinois, which gave up long drives but almost always kept the Wolverines out of the end zone. The second-half shutout is something to build on.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Illinois – B
Michigan – B
Matt Eller missed another makable field goal, but it didn't hurt the Illini. Anthony Santella continues to have a good season, averaging 47.8 yards on four punts, including a 65-yarder.
OVERALL
Illinois – A
Michigan – F
The Illini showed what they were capable of as another loss would have sent an already-frustrated fan base over the edge. The performance begs the question – why haven't the Illini played this way all year?
It just shows that the team goes as the QB goes. It's been that way since the forward pass became prevalent. Fortunately, Juice didn't need much of a forward pass to win yesterday. When teams gear to stop our running game, we're going to be in trouble unless we start throwing the ball downfield more because Juice can not complete touch passes. Finally, no one can cover Cumberland, no one. If they figure that out, Juice and the offense will be much better.
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