One of the most scrappy games in Penn State football history, if not the most, came against the Fighting Illini in a home game during the 2006 season. Penn State escaped with a win of course, but the visitors were only a two-win team all season. And with the offense sputtering like it had for much of the season, it seemed to be even worse in this one. Luckily, if you like to watch defense and good special teams, then this game is for you. First year starter safety Anthony Scirrotto had the game of his life; and coupled with a big day for the linebackers and punter Jeremy Kapinos, the Lions could breathe a sigh of relief after the final gun on this one sounded.

Penn State's Top Performers:
Paul Posluszny: 13 tackles, 1 Sack, Forced Fumble
Dan Connor: 12 tackles, 1 Sack
Anthony Scirrotto: 6 tackles, 2 Int., 3 PD, 1 Kick Return TD
Jeremy Kapinos: 8 punts, 365 yards (45.6 yard average) 4 inside 20 YL

Penn State moved onto a 5-3 mark for the season with the win over Illinois. The Fighting Illini would fall to 2-6 before rounding out the year with a 2-10 record and a last place finish in the Big Ten.