It only took three plays and seventeen seconds, but that was all Illini running back Mikel Leshoure needed to grab the first touch down in a college football game at Wrigley Field since 1938.
Leshoure ran 66 yards on three carries for the score. Northwestern red shirt freshman Evan Watkins, in his first collegiate series as a starter was sacked for a loss of six yards and a lost fumble.
Following another quick Illini drive, Leshoure squirted ahead for a 1 yard touchdown run to put the Illini ahead 14-0.
As of yet, the only effect the special rules have had on the game is the need for Northwestern to shield its offensive signals from the nearby Fighting Illini coaching staff, who share the same sideline.
This game has serious implications for both teams as the Illini look to become bowl eligible for the first time since 2007, and Northwestern looking to improve their resume and possibly move to New Year’s Day bowl.