WATCH: David Olano saves the day for the Illini with game-winner

David Olano saved Illinois fans from losing it. Yes, the Illini won their homecoming game vs USC 34-32. For the most part, they played exceptional football. It was a complete turnaround from the 63-10 loss to Indiana last week. However, the Illini had two excruciating fumbles. The already thin defense seemed to be fatiguing and gave up yet another touchdown to let USC cut the lead to one possession. Afterward, Luke Altmyer hit Collin Dixon for a quick hit that turned into a 60+ yard gain. Though Dixon ideally would have scored, the Illini looked ready, with just a few minutes to go, to put the game away.

After setting up near the goal-line, sophomore running back Ca’lil Valentine lost the ball, and senior tight-end Tanner Arkin, who had his hand on top of the ball, failed to reel it in. The Trojans then marched down the field with ease to take a 1-point lead with 1:55 left.

Credit to Kaden Feagin for helping Illinois get in field goal range. The rest is history. Shoutout to David Olano.

NO. 23 ILLINOIS WINS IT 🙌

David Olano hits the walk-off FG to down No. 21 USC. pic.twitter.com/yxEsaeAK4l

— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) September 27, 2025

DAVID OLANO SAVED MY LIFE!
Illinois plays with fire but completely turned it around from last week. They make a huge statement win in front of a sold-out Homecoming crowd and top the USC Trojans 34-32.

Breathe easy pic.twitter.com/VR7FxumqoN

— Armchair Illinois (@ArmchairIllini) September 27, 2025

Support the hero David Olano!!

Go to the link below, use the code ARMCHAIRILLINI and get 15% off a Jersey

LINK: https://t.co/vvLhFHLibH pic.twitter.com/8FgwJKvmGi

— Armchair Illinois (@ArmchairIllini) September 27, 2025

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