Illinois 27, Middle Tennessee 25

Illinois place-kicker Taylor Zalewski kicks a field goal during the fourth quarter.

Middle Tennessee wide receiver Ed’Marques Batties (80) is congratulated by wide receiver Derek Barnes (19) after his touchdown catch during the fourth quarter.

Middle Tennessee wide receiver Richie James makes a catch as Illinois defensive back Eaton Spence defends during the fourth quarter.

Illinois interim head coach Bill Cubit yells during the second quarter.

Illinois wide receiver Marchie Murdock can’t catch a pass as Middle Tennessee safety Kevin Byard (20) and Middle Tennessee cornerback Michael Minter (47) defend during the fourth quarter.

Illinois place-kicker Taylor Zalewski, right, celebrates his field goal during the fourth quarter.

Illinois defensive lineman Chunky Clements tackles Middle Tennessee quarterback Brent Stockstill during the first quarter.

Illinois fans cheer during the second quarter.

Middle Tennessee wide receiver Demetrius Frazier is tackled by Illinois defensive back Clayton Fejedelem during the third quarter.

Middle Tennessee wide receiver Ed’Marques Batties makes a catch during the fourth quarter.

Illinois wide receiver Dionte Taylor is tackled by Middle Tennessee linebacker T.T. Barber during the first quarter.

Illinois wide receiver Geronimo Allison tries to avoid a tackle by Middle Tennessee safety Xavier Walker during the first quarter.

Illinois quarterback Wes Lunt looks for a receiver during the first quarter.