Illinois struggles but beats Maryland 20-17 on a 26-yard field goal by Ethan Moczulski

College Park, Md. (AP) — In a thrilling finish, Illinois secured a 20-17 triumph over Maryland on Saturday afternoon, with a decisive 26-yard field goal by Ethan Moczulski sealing the victory. Illinois faced a challenging game against Maryland, who had recently returned from a win over Oregon. Quarterback Katin Houser's return from a hand injury seemed to revitalize the Illini, but the game remained tight.

Javari Barnett's 64-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter put Illinois ahead 17-14. Maryland managed to tie the score with their own field goal, but Illinois continued to push forward, taking the ball at their own 26-yard line with only 5:45 remaining on the clock. The Illini orchestrated a final drive, eventually running down the clock after Maryland's timeouts had expired.

Maryland's turnover issues, including a fumble by quarterback Malik Washington and a lost fumble by running back DeJuan Williams, proved costly, but they capitalized on touchdown runs. Meanwhile, Maryland's interim coach Aazaar Abdul-Rahim took charge following Michael Locksley's dismissal, and the team had shown flashes of progress in their first game under the new leadership.

Illinois' quarterback Malik Washington opened the scoring with an 8-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, while Houser's 16-yard strike to Brayden Trimble with 27 seconds left in the half tied the game at 7-all. With the win, Illinois extended their winning streak to three games, and quarterback Katin Houser returned to the lineup.

As for Maryland, their defense appeared rejuvenated under Abdul-Rahim's guidance, but they fell short in this crucial matchup. The Illini will host Nebraska on Friday night, while Maryland will travel to face Purdue next Saturday.