Illinois Athletics

September 9, 2024

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois cornerback Xavier Scott was named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week, the conference office announced Monday. Scott forced three turnovers in Illinois' 23-17 win over #19 Kansas, helping the Illini to their highest ranked nonconference win since 1995.

Scott had two interceptions, one returned for a touchdown, one forced fumble, 1.0 sack, and eight solo tackles against Kansas. A top candidate for national defensive player of the week honors, Scott is the only player in the nation to force three turnovers in a single game this season.

Scott started the game with an interception on Kansas' first series, then had a momentum-swinging pick-6 with 36 seconds left in the first half to give Illinois a 13-10 lead entering halftime. He ended the game with a strip-sack forced fumble on the final play to secure the win.

Scott and the Illini are back in action for Homecoming this weekend against Central Michigan. Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m. CT at Memorial Stadium.