CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) -- The Illini are bowl eligible in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 2010-11 with a win at home over Rutgers.

Luke Altmyer had five touchdowns on the day, four to four different receivers and one rushing touchdown. He logged his biggest rushing day since the 2023 season with 88 rushing yards.

Illinois' defense stepped up to hold Rutgers to just one touchdown that came in the final minutes of the fourth quarter, as well as nine pass breakups and two sacks from Gabe Jacas.

At halftime, Illinois led 21-6, scoring quickly in the third quarter to extend the lead. A tough spot in the day came early in the fourth quarter when David Olano missed a field goal to break his streak of 12 made kicks.

Illinois is off again before returning home to host Maryland on

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