### Aidan Laughery's Triple Touchdowns Propel Illinois to Victory Over Northwestern at Wrigley

CHICAGO - In a thrilling matchup at Wrigley Field, Aidan Laughery delivered an outstanding performance by running for three breakaway touchdowns, leading Illinois to a 38-28 victory over Northwestern. This formidable display helped the Illini reclaim the Land of Lincoln Trophy and conclude their most successful regular season in 17 years.

Laughery's exceptional performance on the field saw him accumulating a career-high 172 yards with touchdown runs of 30, 64, and 31 yards. This phenomenal achievement marks the first time an Illinois player has exceeded 150 rushing yards since Chase Brown in 2022. The victory improved Illinois' record to 9-3 overall and 6-3 in Big Ten play.

Supporting Laughery, wide receiver Pat Bryant made four receptions for 70 yards, tying Brandon Lloyd's single-season receiving touchdowns record with a 43-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter. Quarterback Luke Altmyer completed 10 of 17 passes for 170 yards, threw one touchdown, and ran for another. However, Altmyer's performance was marred by two interceptions from Northwestern's safety, Devin Turner, one of which resulted in a touchdown return.

Northwestern’s effort was led by A.J. Henning, who made 10 receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown. However, their quarterback Jack Lausch faced a tough game, completing 25 of 48 passes for 287 yards and two touchdowns but suffering two interceptions and a fumble. Backup quarterback Ryan Boe also threw an interception.

Illinois' defense was noteworthy, forcing four turnovers. Sophomore linebacker Malachi Hood stood out with two sacks and a forced fumble. Mac Resetich, Xavier Scott, and Torrie Cox Jr. each contributed with an interception.

The game began with a promising drive from Northwestern, but Illinois' defense held firm, forcing a field goal to make it 3-0. Illinois quickly responded with a three-play, 73-yard scoring drive capped by Laughery's first touchdown. Northwestern’s early momentum was dented by an interception from Xavier Scott in the end zone, but Devin Turner’s pick-six gave them a brief lead.

Illinois took control in the second half, starting with Laughery’s 64-yard touchdown run, extending their lead to 21-10. Despite Northwestern responding with a field goal and a touchdown, Illinois' defense held strong with key interceptions and turnovers, allowing Laughery to seal the game with his third touchdown run.

The win not only emphasized Illinois’ growing strength under coach Bret Bielema but also boosted their prospects for a bowl game, likely pointing towards a Citrus Bowl appearance against an SEC opponent. Crucial to their continued success will be the next month's focus on roster retention and talent acquisition to build on this season’s success.