The Champaign Room · Nov 4, 2023
Illinois stuns Minnesota behind Paddock’s final drive
MINNEAPOLIS — HOW. ABOUT. THAT.
Down to a desperation 4th-and-18, backup quarterback John Paddock delivered a miraculous 84-yard touchdown drive to steal a win from the hands of Minnesota in the game’s final seconds, 27-26.
The win keeps Illinois very much in bowl contention and moves Bret Bielema to a remarkable 10-0 against the Gophers in his coaching career.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Things went the Illini’s way as soon as the ball was kicked off.
Minnesota kick returner Sean Tyler fumbled the opening kickoff and Illinois recovered, setting the offense up in the red zone before taking a single snap.