CHAMPAIGN – Eastern had a chance to take the lead against No. 24 Illinois about six minutes before halftime. The Panthers had the ball at the Illinois seven-yard line, but could not pick up that crucial yard with consecutive rushing plays.

Illinois then scored twice before the second quarter came to a close to increase their lead to 19-7 en route to a 47-21 victory.

The Fighting Illini dominated with their ground game with 399 rushing yards on 53 carries. Illinois junior quarterback Juice Williams had an Illinois record 174 yards and scored twice on the ground. Williams also completed 16-of-25 passes for 124 yards and another touchdown.

Eastern was led by red-shirt senior running back Travorus Bess who rushed for 183 yards on 15 carries. Bess’ first rush of the game (for 55 yards) put him over 1,000 yards for his career.

The Panthers’ defense also had two interceptions and two fumble recoveries against the Fighting Illini. Senior free safety Irvin Jean-Charles returned one of the fumble recoveries for a touchdown.

Eastern red-shirt junior quarterback Bodie Reeder threw for one of Eastern’s touchdowns, and freshman running back Desmin Ward scored his first career touchdown for the Panthers.