Wisconsin fans likely had a feeling of deja vu Monday night as the Packers fell 24-22 at the hands of Tommy DeVito and the New York Giants. For the Badger-Packer fans, at least.
DeVito’s sudden national prominence aside, it was not the first time he beat a Wisconsin team in a significant spot.
The date was October 1, 2022. Wisconsin was 2-2 and reeling after a 52-21 beatdown at the hands of Ohio State. The Paul Chryst, Graham Mertz-led Badgers were ready to welcome in Bret Beilema and the Illinois Fighting Illini — Beilema’s first time back in Madison since leaving Wisconsin in 2012.
The result: a 34-10 Illinois win. Illinois’ quarterback was the aforementioned DeVito, who completed 18/24 passes for 167 yards that afternoon and added three rushing touchdowns.
3 rushing TDs for #3 💪😤
QB @tommydevito007 is doing it all today for @IlliniFootball 🔥 pic.twitter.com/PgBMxJfMMa
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 1, 2022
The aftermath is well-known in Madison. Chryst was fired, Jim Leonhard was named interim, the season played out, Luke Fickell was surprisingly hired and both Chryst and Leonhard found other jobs. Now here we are, gearing up for Fickell’s all-important second offseason with the program as he looks to improve upon 2023’s 7-5 regular season.
DeVito, meanwhile, somehow has the Giants on the brink of the NFL Playoffs after last night’s win over the Packers. He has a way of beating Wisconsin teams in important spots.