- Redshirt-freshman QB Jeff George Jr. made his first career start. George and his father, former Illinois QB Jeff George became the first father/son duo to start at quarterback for the Fighting Illini.
- Junior WR Malik Turner caught a 43-yard pass in the third quarter and a 43-yard TD in the fourth quarter, the first completion of Jeff George Jr.'s career. Turner entered the game with 39.2-percent of Illinois' receiving yards, the second highest percentage among Power 5 players, and had 90.5-percent vs. Michigan.
- Sophomore QB Chayce Crouch and senior QB Wes Lunt missed the game with injuries.