Ethan Moczulski kicked a 26-yard field goal as time expired to give Illinois a 20–17 road victory over Maryland on Saturday, October 31, according to the university's official game report.
The Fighting Illini improved to 5–3 overall and 3–2 in the Big Ten, extending their winning streak to three games.
Illinois used the final 5 minutes, 45 seconds to move 67 yards in 13 plays and set up the winning kick. Jordan Anderson helped finish the drive with four consecutive carries, including a run on which he took a knee near the goal line to position the offense for the field goal.
The teams had entered halftime tied 7–7. Brayden Trimble's first career touchdown reception, a 16-yard pass from Katin Houser with 27 seconds left in the second quarter, had pulled Illinois level.
Maryland regained the lead in the third quarter before Moczulski made a 45-yard field goal. Javari Barnett then broke a 64-yard touchdown run on the opening play of the fourth quarter, putting Illinois ahead 17–14.
A Maryland field goal tied the game with 10:16 remaining, setting up the final Illinois possession.
Houser finished with 223 passing yards and a touchdown in his return after a one-game absence, Illinois reported. Collin Dixon caught six passes for 103 yards. Barnett ran for a career-high 80 yards, while Anderson added 45.
The university credited its defense with allowing only three points and 99 yards over the final 26:10 of the game. Illinois also forced two first-half turnovers in the red zone.
Illinois finished with 407 total yards, including 184 rushing yards. Its next scheduled game is at home against Nebraska on November 6.
Sources Illinois Athletics — October 31 Game Report and Final Statistics: https://fightingillini.com/news/2026/10/31/football-walkoff-win-illinois-secures-road-victory-over-maryland