The Illinois football team fell tonight to the Michigan Wolverines 27-17. The Illini jumped out with an early lead, but watched as Michigan fought back to take a 17-14 lead at halftime. This was the first time this year that the Orange and Blue went into the half losing at Memorial Stadium.

This is the team's second loss in a row, bringing the Illini to 5-3 on the season and 3-2 in the Big Ten Conference.

The key play came with 8:58 left in the fourth quarter. After a big defensive stop by the Illini, wide receiver Kyle Hudson fumbled the punt, giving the ball back to the Wolverines. After a Carlos Brown run, Mike Hart's replacement, Michigan ran a trick play where wide receiver Adrian Arrington threw a pass to wide out Mario Manningham for a six point touchdown.

Adding the extra point, the Wolverines were up 24-17, and never looked back as they added a field goal to seal the deal. The Illini did not enter Michigan's territory the entire fourth quarter.

This game raises more questions about quarterback situation, which seems to be up in the air for the Illini. Juice Williams and Eddie McGee roughly split game time in the second half, and McGee ended up six for twelve with zero interceptions and touchdowns, while Williams was eight for fourteen with one pick and a passing touchdown. Zook already named Juice Williams next week's starter, but expect McGee to take a good share of the snaps.

Despite the loss, Zook was very proud of his team for their efforts against a powerhouse like Michigan. He told his team after the game, "Look, don't hang your heads. Don't be embarrassed. We'll be back, and we will get right back on track."

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