Defeat snatched from the jaws of victory. And this time Illinois was even closer to its first win against a high-major opponent before two empty possessions to end the game.
What it means
The Illini are still clearly trying to figure out how to close out games. They certainly don't have it yet, as another tight game in the second half went against them.
What's next
Illinois' award for not playing any of its first four Big Ten games at home is a 7 p.m. Thursday game against No. 2 Michigan. Welcome back to State Farm Center.