Illinois makes a stop on Michigan State’s 2-point conversion attempt in OT, holds on for 38-37 win

EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michael Clayton of Illinois threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Hudson Clement early in overtime, securing a 38-37 victory over Michigan State. On the first play of overtime, Illinois successfully defended a 2-point conversion attempt by Michigan State. The Fighting Illini (3-3, 1-2 Big Ten) overcame a sluggish start, leading by 16 points midway through the third quarter.

Michigan State (2-4, 0-3) staged a comeback, but a crucial decision late in the game by Michigan State's coach, Bret Bielema, proved decisive. Michigan State lined up in a wildcat formation for a fourth-and-1 play at the 33-yard line, which Clayton failed to convert, leaving the Spartans with 3:27 remaining on the clock. With 1:17 left in the game, Jaziun Patterson scored a touchdown for Illinois, ultimately leading to his team's victory.