Illinois QB Jeff George Jr. failed to complete pass against Michigan in first half

Jeff George Jr. debut as the starting quarterback for Illinois didn't go as well as the career of his namesake father.

Pressed into duty with injuries to Wes Lunt and Chayce Crouch, the freshman failed to complete a pass against Michigan in the first half. He was 0-for-7 with one interception as the Illini were outgained 316-70 and trailed 31-0.

He finally registered his first college completion early in the third quarter on a 43-yard connection to Malik Turner and later found Turner for a 43-yard strike early in the fourth quarter for the first touchdown pass of his career.

George finished 4-of-15 for 95 yards. Michigan won 41-8.

Before Saturday, George had appeared in one game this season against Murray State and did not attempt a pass.

Jeff George started his college career at Purdue before playing two seasons at Illinois. He left school after his junior season and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 1990 NFL draft.

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