WATCH: Ricky Smalling completes ridiculous TD catch flat on his back

Illinois is not going away quietly in the rivalry game against Northwestern!

After trailing the Wildcats 24-9 in the fourth quarter, the Illini are trying to make things interesting. This incredible touchdown catch by Ricky Smalling even made it a one-possession game with less than eight minutes to go.

The throw was a nice one on the back shoulder, but Smalling was unable to immediately secure the catch. He bobbled the ball as he lost his footing and fell to the ground. Fortunately, he somehow found a way to reel in the catch while on his back.

The BTN shared Smalling’s impressive catch:

The B1G West Champs are trying to head into Indy with a win, but @IlliniFootball isn’t letting them go easily.

And this awesome grab is @SuccessfulRicky‘s second #BTNStandout x @AutoOwnersIns of the game: pic.twitter.com/MneZsgl61v

— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) November 24, 2018

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.