Illinois gave fans an exciting end to the first half against UAB on Friday night.
With the clock winding down and the Illini clinging to a 14-13 lead, Katin Houser dropped back and launched the ball toward the end zone. The ball appeared to first hit a UAB player’s hands, but it ultimately fell to Illinois’ Ty Robinson for a 54-yard touchdown.
UAB defensive coordinator Todd Grantham chose to only rush one player, giving Houser plenty of time to line up his throw to the end zone.
Here’s a clip:
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This play gave Illinois a little bit of breathing room before halftime. The Illini took a 21-13 lead into the break and ultimately cruised to a 42-23 win over the Blazers.
Houser was excellent, throwing for 182 yards and 3 touchdowns on 17 attempts. Ca’lil Valentine also made a big impact for Illinois as he rushed for 88 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries.
Illinois will host Duke in a nonconference showdown in Week 2.
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Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
