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FAU loses to Illinois 23-17, falling to 1-3

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Christian Proscia (@Christian_Proscia_Photography)

ILLINOIS- FAU (1-3) traveled to Illinois (2-2) for the final out-of-conference game on the Owls schedule.

The opening quarter of today’s game was a defensive clash, highlighted only by a Morgan Lupo field goal. At the end of the first quarter, FAU finds the end zone first when Quarterback Daniel Richardson hits LaJohntay Wester for a beautiful 25 yard toe-drag touchdown as time expires.

Wester, who recently became FAU’s Career Receptions leader (163) last week at Clemson, continues to add more catches to cement his long-lasting legacy at FAU. Lajohntay Wester was a problem for the Illini defense all night, recording 13 receptions for 137 yards and a touchdown on offense, as well as breaking off multiple long returns on special teams.

Illinois struck back, when quarterback Luke Altmyer throws a wide open flea flicker pass to tight end Griffin Moore for a 46 yard touchdown.

In a two-minute goal line situation, Illinois put up crucial points, when Altmyer rushes for an easy 7 yards. Illinois gains the lead for the first time tonight, going up 14-10.

After a quick FAU three-and-out, Lupo drills a 66 yard punt to pin the Illini on their own two yard line with 1:02 remaining in the half. After a promising drive, the FAU defense stuffs the Illinois offense as the clock winds down.

At the half, Illinois leads FAU, 14-10.

On Illinois’ opening drive of the second half, the Illini march 80 yards down field on a drive capped by a Aiden Laughery 6 yard touchdown rush. FAU’s response drive looked promising, but ultimately resulted in a missed field goal.

FAU running back Larry McCammon III sparked life in the Owls offense, bulldozing a 15 yard rush on a 4th and 1. McCammon then rushes for another first down on the next play, followed by a big completion by Wester.

After the red zone gains were pushed back by penalties, the Owls go for it on 4th and long. Richardson’s pass was dropped by Je’Quan Burton, despite a missed defensive pass interference call.

On the very next play, Jarron Morris knocks the ball loose, as Jayden Williams recovers his second fumble of the night in the red zone. The Owls offense were unable to capitalize with the premiere field position, as Richardson throws a goal line interception on fourth down.

After another short Illinois drive, the Owls gain the ball at their 3 yard line. FAU proceeds to construct a long, methodical 97 yard drive, including big gains from Larry McCammon, Lajohntay Wester and Je’Quan Burton. Ultimately, the drive ends with a B.J. Alexander 9 yard touchdown to bring the score 23-7 with under five minutes remaining in the game.

Unfortunately, this is too little, too late as Illinois chews the remaining clock down.

Final score 23-17 Illinois.

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