Bowl-bound Wildcats stop Illini

Last update: November 14, 2009 - 8:29 PM

CHAMPAIGN, ILL. - Mike Kafka threw for 305 yards and a touchdown and ran for another score, sparking Northwestern to a 21-16 victory over Illinois on Saturday.

Zeke Markshausen had six catches for 104 yards and a touchdown to help Northwestern (7-4, 4-3 Big Ten) all but assure itself of going to a second consecutive bowl game. Sherrick McMapreserved the victory with a last-minute interception.

Jacob Charest made his first start, for the injured Juice Williams, but was benched at halftime in favor of Eddie McGee before returning to lead the Illini (3-7, 2-6) to two fourth-quarter touchdowns. Charest completed 14 of 27 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown and two interceptions, including the one that ended Illinois' bid for bowl eligibility following a 1-6 start.

Northwestern hasn't been to consecutive bowls since going to the Rose and Citrus after the 1995 and 1996 seasons.

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