#23 Illinois takes down Purdue in OT to claim The Cannon

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) -- The Cannon is finally back in Champaign even though the battle for it took a little longer than most expected with Illinois defeating Purdue in overtime 50-49. 

The Illini offense saw career days from Luke Altmyer and Josh McCray. But the defense couldn't contain Purdue, a team that has 44 total points in four FBS games. They put up 49 on the Orange and Blue, with a Freshman Quarterback and Ryan Walters calling the offense. 

Even despite blowing a 24 point lead Head Coach Bret Bielema said it's the best thing that could happen for his team. 

And the Illini trophy case is no longer empty winning the Cannon Trophy for the first time since 2019. 

And now the stage is set for the biggest game in program history when #24 Michigan comes to town next weekend for another sold out game.