FARGO, N.D. – Voices began addressing the Illinois State football team shortly after the Redbirds’ second-round FCS playoff victory over Central Arkansas, some in the form of a whisper and some in a scream.
Pundits declared ISU a heavy underdog by as much as three touchdowns or even more. Other observers pointed out what the Redbirds already knew. North Dakota State has been practically unbeatable the past eight seasons while winning seven national championships.
Still others declared ISU can’t possibly overcome an NDSU team on its own home field after the Redbirds were handled by the Bison, 37-3, on Oct.