Illinois stuns Minnesota behind Paddock’s final drive

MINNEAPOLIS — HOW. ABOUT. THAT.

Down to a desperation 4th-and-11, backup quarterback John Paddock delivered a miraculous 84-yard touchdown drive to steal a win from the hands of Minnesota in the game’s final seconds, 27-26.

The win keeps Illinois (4-5, 2-4 Big Ten) very much in bowl contention and moves head coach Bret Bielema to a remarkable 10-0 against the Gophers (5-4, 3-3 Big Ten) in his coaching career.

HOW IT HAPPENED

Things went the Illini’s way as soon as the ball was kicked off.

Minnesota kick returner Sean Tyler fumbled the opening kickoff and Illinois recovered, setting the offense up in the red zone before taking a single snap.

It took just three plays for Luke Altmyer to pay it off, finding Tip Reiman over the middle for a 15-yard touchdown to put the Illini in front 7-0 within the game’s first two minutes.

It didn’t take long for the Gophers to answer, however, as a 6-play, 3-minute touchdown drive led by Minnesota quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis evened…