After junior kicker David Olano’s walk-off field goal against USC (4-1, 2-1), the Illinois (4-1, 1-1) kicker was awarded Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week honors. His 41-yard field goal sealed the 34-32 victory for the Illini.
“He just doesn’t miss in those moments,” said head coach Bret Bielema.
In fact, the Naperville native didn’t miss a kick all day. He was 2-for-2 on field goals and 4-for-4 on extra points. Olano has been nearly flawless all season. He is 6-for-7 on field goals and a perfect 24-for-24 on extra points.
“It’s just one of those special moments where I’ve always dreamt about it,” Olano said. “I’m just grateful to be a part of it and to be able to execute and do my job.”
This is the second time this season an Illini has won the Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week award. Senior wide receiver Hank Beatty took home the award after his record-breaking performance against Western Illinois.
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