Kolbe-Gibbs hookups spark ISU to big halftime lead

Buy Now NORMAL — Jake Kolbe hooked up with Christian Gibbs for nearly identical touchdown passes of 54 and 77 yards to spark Illinois State to a 24-0 halftime lead over Indiana State at Hancock Stadium on Saturday.

The No. 8-ranked Redbirds squandered early opportunities but took a 3-0 lead on a 44-yard Sean Slattery field goal.

ISU's defense recorded the first touchdown. James Graham forced a fumble by Indiana State quarterback Cade Sparks in the end zone. End Adam Conley fell on the football for a touchdown.

After the Redbirds lost a James Robinson fumble in the end zone, ISU took to the air to pull away.

First, Kolbe found a well-covered Gibbs down the right sideline. The senior receiver…