WEST LAFAYETTE, IN (Chambana Today) — For the first time in more than two decades, Illinois will keep The Cannon for a second straight year.

No. 22 Illinois surged past Purdue, 43–27, on Saturday afternoon at Ross-Ade Stadium, using a 27-point second quarter to pull away and never look back. The win improves the Illini to 5–1 (2–1 Big Ten) and marks their first back-to-back victories over the Boilermakers since 2001–02.

Quarterback Luke Altmyer led the charge with a career-best 390 yards passing, connecting five times with wideout Hank Beatty for 186 yards—including a game-changing 62-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Running backs Kaden Feagin and Ca’Lil Valentine each found the end zone, while kicker David Olano tied the program record with five field goals.

“This was a full team win,” said head coach Bret Bielema. “Offense, defense, special teams—we answered every challenge.”

Cannon Captured Early

After falling behind 7–0 in the first quarter, Illinois exploded with 27 unanswered points. Altmyer’s long strike to Beatty opened the floodgates, and the Illini never trailed again. The offense marched 94 yards for one score and needed just 38 seconds to cover 80 yards for another.

Meanwhile, the defense forced two key turnovers, including a fumble that set up Olano’s fourth field goal of the game.

Career Performances

  • Altmyer went 19-for-22, including a perfect second quarter where he threw for 219 yards and a touchdown.

  • Beatty’s 186 yards were the second-most ever by an Illini receiver against Purdue and the highest in a Big Ten game this season.

  • Olano nailed field goals from 35, 42, 45, 34, and 40 yards, matching the school record for field goals in a single game.

Feagin added his first career multi-touchdown game with two scores, and Valentine rushed for a personal-best 95 yards.

Looking Ahead: Ohio State

With the win, Illinois continues its best 10-game stretch (9–1) since 2001 and now prepares to host top-ranked Ohio State next Saturday in a sold-out Gies Memorial Stadium. The Buckeyes, defending national champions, will test an Illini team surging with confidence and offensive firepower.

“It’s an unbelievable opportunity,” said linebacker Dylan Rosiek. “Anytime you get the No. 1 team in your house, you’ve got to be excited.”