With both Illinois and UCLA undergoing significant transitions since the end of the season, it should come as no surprise that both programs struggled to find any consistency or identity in the opening quarter of the 2011 Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl. In a scoreless first quarter, the two teams combined for just five first downs, with the defense setting the tone for both sides.
Although he struggled throwing the ball, completing just 4/9 for 12 yards and an interception, Nathan Scheelhaase was able to make an impact on the game. Scheelhaase used his legs to move the ball for Illinois, as he rushed for 38 yards in the opening quarter.
In the absence of Richard Brehaut, the UCLA offense struggled with Kevin Prince leading the way. Prince completed just 2/7 for 36 yards in the opening quarter. Shaquelle Evans showed off his ability to make big plays with a 30-yard reception.
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