Illinois jumps out to 28-7 halftime lead against Minnesota

By Shannon Ryan

MINNEAPOLIS - With its most productive first half of the season, Illinois took a 28-7 halftime lead on Minnesota.

Not even against Illinois State did they rack up as many points, when they took a 24-0 lead.

A few weeks ago, Illinois looked like it had no quarterbacks.

Now the Illini look like they have two.

Juice Williams left the game on Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium with a left ankle injury after fumbling when taking a hit in the first quarter. He had gone 5-of-5 for 53 yards and a touchdown before limping off the field.

Williams stood on the sideline for the latter part of the second quarter.

Redshirt freshman Jacob Charest, who had played in stints against Purdue, looked capable as well. He connected on 5 of 9 passes for 90 yards in the second quarter, capitalizing on great field position for two scoring drives.