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SDSU's Backup QB Shocks No. 9 Illinois State
6 Oct
Summary
- South Dakota State defeated Illinois State 31-14.
- The win positions SDSU for the No. 1 FCS ranking.
- Illinois State, national runner-up last year, is struggling in conference play.
South Dakota State asserted its authority in the Missouri Valley Football Conference with a commanding 31-14 victory over No. 9 Illinois State on Saturday. The win, achieved with a backup quarterback, propels the Jackrabbits toward the top spot in the FCS polls and positions them strongly for a playoff run.
The Jackrabbits have now secured two crucial conference wins early in their schedule. Their performance against Illinois State, a team that reached the national championship game last year, signals their strength and aspirations for the season. SDSU's robust running game and solid defense have been key factors in their 5-1 record.
Meanwhile, the loss significantly impacts Illinois State, which was ranked third nationally just two weeks prior. Now 0-2 in conference play, the Redbirds face a challenging road ahead with several tough remaining matchups. Despite their current struggles, the team's history of reaching the championship with multiple losses means they are not yet out of contention.
In other conference action, the University of South Dakota bounced back with an authoritative win, and North Dakota delivered a remarkable comeback after a slow start. These results highlight the competitive nature of the Missouri Valley Football Conference as teams jockey for playoff positioning.
