The 2021 season is off and running with Illinois starting the season with a bang!

Taking on Nebraska in Champaign, the Illini fell behind 9-2 in the first half before waking up. After that, Bret Bielema’s squad would go on a 28-point run before holding on late for the 30-22 victory.

The win has to be sweet for Bielema in his return to the B1G. Illinois even looked strong after losing starting quarterback Brandon Peters to injury with backup Art Sitkowski throwing for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns on 12-for-15 passing.

The win also meant a bit of history for Illinois. According to the FOX broadcast, Saturday marked the first time that the Illini have beaten Nebraska in back-to-back matchups since 1923-24.

In 2020, Illinois ran all over Nebraska to the tune of a 41-23 victory. That means the Illini have outscored the Huskers 71-45 over the past two seasons.

Congratulations to Bielema and his squad on the big win. Now, what does that mean for Scott Frost and the Huskers?