CHICAGO (WAND) – No. 22 Illinois closed out a very memorable the regular season with a 38-28 win over Northwestern at Wrigley Field.
The Illini reclaimed the Land of Lincoln Trophy from the Wildcats.
Illinois, now riding a three-game winning-streak, closed the regular season with nine wins for the first time since 2007.
Illinois (9-3, 6-3 Big Ten) had the home run ball going for them. Aidan Laughery rushed for a career-high 172 yards and three touchdowns.
Pat Bryant tied the Illinois single-season receiving touchdown record with his 10th score of the season.
Thorpe Award semifinalist Xavier Scott recorded his fourth interception of the season.
Illinois is now one win away from tying the program record of 10 wins.
"It is why you come to Illinois," said Adian Laughery. "To go 9-3, to be a part of the turnaround. It's the culmination of hard work."
"Our successes this year came from our failures last year." said Luke Altmyer.
The Illini await to hear who they will play in a bowl game. The bowl selection show is a week from Sunday.
"To think Illinois is on the doorstep of the College Football Playoff is awesome," said Bret Bielema.
