This game started pretty close. Both teams went on little scoring runs but by the 15-minute mark in the first half, the game was tied 9-9. The game continued to be close. With 10 minutes left in the first half, Illinois was up by a point, 15-14.
Illinois was able to go on a scoring run toward the end of the first half. They extended their lead to 27-18 with 4:20 left until halftime. Ohio State was able to end the first half strong, though, and the teams went into the locker room with the Illini up 30-27.