Collin Dixon and Katin Houser Highlight Illinois Play in Big Ten

During the football game on November 7, 2026, multiple plays unfolded featuring Collin Dixon, Anthony Colandrea, Jacory Barney Jr., Katin Houser, and Lars Ray.

Mekhi Nelson Scores First Touchdown for Nebraska

The matchup brought heavy Big Ten conference implications, with high-impact plays dominating the action broadcasted on FOX. Early in the game, Mekhi Nelson shifted momentum for Nebraska by taking the ball 15 yards to the end zone, putting the Huskers on the scoreboard first.

Illinois Counters Through Dixon and Houser

Illinois quickly countered through its offensive weapons. Big Ten Football highlighted Collin Dixon moving the chains across 58 yards, while Katin Houser connected with a wide-open Dixon to extend the Illini’s lead. Later, a video review confirmed another scoring run by Dixon, pushing the Illini further ahead.

Lars Ray Converts Crucial First Down

Illinois also utilized unexpected personnel choices on crucial downs. Lars Ray, functioning as the team’s punter and holder, converted a first down himself by picking up the necessary yardage on the ground. Houser later connected with Anderson to secure another crucial Illini lead.

Matt Rhule Protests Holding Penalty Against Nebraska

Nebraska stayed competitive through explosive connections of its own. Anthony Colandrea found Jacory Barney Jr. for a massive touchdown pass that kept the Huskers within striking distance.

On the sideline, Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule voiced strong objections to a holding call against his squad, suggesting the penalty was the result of a player flop. The ruling remained a notable point of discussion during the broadcast before action resumed.

More on Illinois: Illinois defeats Maryland 20-17 on last-Second field goal · Illinois Faces Maryland as Fighting Illini Seek Third Straight Win · Brad Underwood Shifts Illinois to Play-Free Offense for 2026-27