Watch: Illinois RB Josh McCray Breaks Tackles on Big Scoring Run

The Illini get the momentum shift they need on an explosive play from their power back

Illinois running back Josh McCray (6) turns upfield after catching a pass in the second quarter of a Big Ten football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. | Dan Rainville / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Down 10-3 against Minnesota late in the second quarter, No. 24 Illinois had just given up a 29-yard rushing touchdown to Gophers running back Darius Taylor.

On the following drive, after quarterback Luke Altmyer found receiver Zakhari Franklin for a 15-yard pickup on second-and-18, the Illini were facing a third-and-short and decided to go to the ground.

Having struggled to generate offense on the ground all half (14 carries for 28 yards), Illinois was in desperate need of a game-breaker to help open the field for Altmyer and the passing game – and maybe even make a dent on the scoreboard.

They got both. On the handoff running back Josh McCray cut back twice – first against the grain and then shifting again – shed multiple tackles and recovered his balance to outrun the only Gophers defenders with a chance to make a play for a 42-yard touchdown.

He just kept going! 🔥 Josh McCray to the endzone for @IlliniFootball pic.twitter.com/m546ntpkk8

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 2, 2024

Minnesota followed with a quick drive capped by a 45-yard field goal to take a 13-10 lead into halftime. The Gophers will receive the second-half kickoff, but McCray's run may have finally given the Illini offense the opening it needed.

More From Illinois on Sports Illustrated:

Why Illinois Football Is the Underdog Against Unranked Minnesota

3 Key Numbers to Watch for Illinois Football vs. Minnesota in Week 10

Big Ten Football Players to Watch in Week 10: Illinois QB Luke Altmyer's Crucial Test