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Making History: Illinois OC Rod Smith breaks down Illini’s game-winning drive vs. Michigan State

Dustin Schutte

By Dustin Schutte

Published:

Illinois notched some pretty impressive victories during its 2019 season, earning a trip to a bowl game for the first time since 2014. One of those wins game in historic fashion.

The Illini overcame a 25-point deficit against Michigan State in East Lansing to improve to 6-4 on the season, clinching a bowl berth for the first time during the Lovie Smith era. It was also the largest comeback victory in the program’s history, making the win even sweeter for the Orange and Blue.

With just over three minutes to play in the fourth quarter, Illinois trailed 34-30 and needed to put together a 75-yard touchdown drive to get the critical road win over the Spartans. Thirteen plays later, Brandon Peters hit Daniel Barker in the back of the end zone with five seconds left to lift Illinois to a 37-34 win over Michigan State.

Illinois had to overcome a couple of fourth downs and a few close calls to get the victory, but it got the job done. On Sunday, Illinois football posted a video of Rod Smith breaking down each play of that drive, which got the Illini their sixth win on the season.

Below is the video. For Illinois fans, this is one game that’s always worth re-watching:

Dustin Schutte

Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB