Illinois has watched its hot start slowly evaporate against Iowa and two defenders that were dinged up in the first half will not return in the second half.

To start the game, quarterback Brandon Peters was phenomenal and staked the team to a quick 14-0 lead. Unfortunately, the Illini stalled out on that number, unable to build on that lead as Iowa slowly chipped away.

Illinois was able to force a goalline stand to close the half, holding the Hawkeyes to a field goal heading into the break. Iowa has since taken the lead and the Illini defense will be down two defenders the rest of the way as they are now facing a deficit.

According to Jeremy Werner with Illini Inquirer, Illinois confirmed that Khalan Tolson and Jamal Woods will not return to the game. That is a tough blow as both players are starters and key to the defense.

Hopefully Illinois can force some turnovers down the stretch, but it is not a good sign that Iowa has apparently found a groove offensively.