Staff report
Champaign, Illinois – November 11, 2023
In an overtime heartbreaker at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, the Indiana Hoosiers, and the Illinois Fighting Illini battled after Indiana gave up its lead from the first half, with the Illini emerging victorious with a narrow 48-45 win.
The game showcased an offensive spectacle, with both teams trading blows throughout regulation and into the overtime period. The Indiana Hoosiers, with a season record of 3-7, put up a valiant effort against the Illinois Fighting Illini, standing at 5-5.
At one point in the first half, IU was leading Illinois 27-12. By the third quarter, Illinois was leading IU 33-27.
The Hoosiers were led by quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who completed 22 of 33 passes for 289 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Sorsby’s connection with his receivers, particularly Donaven McCulley, who recorded 11 receptions for 137 yards and two touchdowns, kept the Hoosiers in the game.
Trent Howland contributed to the Hoosiers’ offensive effort with 13 carries for 72 yards and one rushing touchdown. Reggie Love III also made a significant impact, rushing for 141 yards and two touchdowns.
But it wasn’t enough.
On the opposing side, the Fighting Illini quarterback, John Paddock, delivered a standout performance, completing 24 of 38 passes for an impressive 507 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. Paddock connected with Isaiah Williams for 200 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
The Fighting Illini managed to secure the win in overtime, with Isaiah Williams hauling in a 21-yard touchdown pass from Paddock past IU’s defense.
In the end, the total offensive yards reflected the high-scoring nature of the contest, with the Illini amassing 665 total yards compared to the Hoosiers’ 451 yards. The passing game was particularly explosive, with a combined 796 passing yards between the two teams.
The victory for the Illinois Fighting Illini brings their season record to an even 5-5, while the Indiana Hoosiers, despite their strong effort, drop to 3-8.
