Category: Illinois State University

Saturday’s key Missouri Valley Football Conference matchup between Illinois State and South Dakota may well determine a postseason berth.

Three years ago, Mason Kaplan stared down the Illinois State defense as the opposing quarterback for non-scholarship Valparaiso. Now, he’s a starting inside linebacker for the Top 10 Redbirds.

During each of Illinois State’s recent FCS playoff qualifying seasons, the Redbirds have featured a solid running game. This year appears to be on the same track.

Illinois State left tackle Brandon Smith shares his transition from limited playing time to developing into a starter along with his Indianapolis football connections and feelings for his family.

Southern Illinois rang up 656 yards of total offense en route to a 55-27 win against Indiana State.

Though his team has won three straight games and is ranked in the FCS Top 10, Illinois State head coach Brock Spack has concerns with his defense.

Illinois State kicker Matt Maldonado kicked three field goals including a career-long 51-yarder as well as a 38-yarder to keep the Redbirds on track for their double-overtime victory Saturday against North Alabama.

Nationally ranked Illinois State slipped past unranked North Alabama, 38-36, in double overtime Saturday at Hancock Stadium.