Nov. 4, 2006

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1. Illinois outgained Ohio State in total yards, 233-to-224, marking the first time this season that the Buckeyes have totaled fewer yards than their opponent.

2. The margin of seven points in today's game marked Ohio State's closest decision of the season, and its first in single digits. Ohio State entered today's game with an average winning margin of more than 28 points per game, with its previous closest decision a 17-point victory at Texas.

3. The Illinois defense held Ohio State to its fewest points--17, fewest total yards--224, and fewest passing yards, 108, on the season. OSU's previous season low for points was 24 at Texas, its previous season low for total yards was 253 vs. Penn State, and its previous season low for passing yards was 115 vs. Penn State.

4. Illinois held Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith to a season-low 108 yards passing. Smith did not have a touchdown pass in today's game, ending a streak of 11 straight games with at least one passing TD.

5. OSU running back Antonio Pittman was held to just 58 yards on 32 carries today. His 58 yards rushing marks his second-lowest total of the season (behind 48 yards vs. Michigan State).

6. Ohio State's 116 yards rushing today against the Illini is its second-lowest total of the season (behind 79 yards rushing vs. Texas).

7. J Leman set a career high today with 19 tackles. His previous best was 15 set against Syracuse earlier this season.

8. With 19 tackles vs. Ohio State, Leman has passed the 100-tackle mark for the season. He now has 117 tackles for the year, the most since Matt Sinclair totaled 129 in 2003.

9. Coming into today's game, the Buckeye offensive line had only given up nine total sacks in nine games. The Illini recorded three sacks today, the most by any opponent this season.

10. Freshman Jeff Cumberland led the Illini with a career-high 62 yards receiving, tying his career-best with four catches.

11. Junior placekicker Jason Reda kicked his 11th field goal of the season, a 27-yarder in the fourth quarter, which is also the 31st FG of his career.

12. Safety Kevin Mitchell recorded his second interception of the season and of his career.

13. Pierre Thomas had a 43-yard run in the first quarter, marking his second 40-plus-yard run this season.