CARBONDALE, Ill. – Illinois State (2-2, 0-1 MVFC) battled tough against No. 7 Southern Illinois (3-1, 1-0 MVFC) but ultimately the Salukis' offense proved to be too much in the second half and the Redbirds fell 35-17 in the Missouri Valley Football Conference season opener.
How it happened:
- After winning the opening toss, the Redbirds decided to defer to the second half and the Salukis received the opening kickoff. A defensive battle ensued throughout the first quarter.
- After a scoreless first quarter, the Redbirds got on the board first with a 22-yard field goal with 13:35 on the second quarter clock.