Wisconsin Stages 18-point Fourth-Quarter Comeback to Beat Illinois 25-21

Quarterback Braedyn Locke's first starting game ends in victory; Badgers' Braelon Allen gains 145 yards against Illinois, putting Wisconsin in first place in the Big Ten West.

Quarterback Braedyn Locke, in his debut game as a starter, threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to offensive lineman Nolan Rucci with 27 seconds left in the game, securing a 25-21 victory for Wisconsin over Illinois.
The Badgers achieved an 18-point fourth-quarter comeback, making it the first time they have won a Big Ten game where they trailed by at least 14 points in the fourth quarter since 2018.
Braelon Allen, the Big Ten’s leading rusher, ran for 145 yards for the Badgers, his contribution was crucial in keeping the winning drive alive, earning praise from coach Luke Fickell.
Luke Altmyer, Illinois quarterback, contributed significantly to the Illini's first three touchdowns, his mobility posed a challenge for the Wisconsin defense throughout the game.
Despite trailing 21-7 after the third quarter and committing multiple penalties in the first, the Badgers demonstrated significant resilience to secure their victory.