Freshman Rejus Benn scored two touchdowns, including a 90-yard kickoff return, and the Illini defense intercepted Penn State quarterback Anthony Morelli three times today in a 27-20 victory over No. 21 Penn State.

Illinois hadn't beaten Penn State or any ranked team since 2001, when the Illini went to the Sugar Bowl. The program has been a wreck since, with five straight losing seasons, but third-year coach Ron Zook appears to have the Illini moving in the right direction.

"Right now, I don't want to say we've turned it around — we haven't turned it around — but we've made some progress," Zook said.

Illinois (4-1) is 2-0 in the Big Ten for the first time since 1991.

Benn, the prize catch in Zook's stellar recruiting class, had six receptions for 84 yards, including a 29-yard touchdown that gave Illinois a 21-10 lead.

Benn caught the short ball over the middle and ran by four would-be tacklers on his way to the end zone.

"I'm catching the ball and saying to myself, 'I will not be denied'," Benn said.

Penn State (3-2, 0-2) lost its second straight game and has upcoming games against Iowa, Wisconsin and Ohio State.