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Shades of 2014 as Illinois State takes on Villanova in FCS playoff semifinals

Pantagraph | December 20, 2025

Related Topics: Villanova, NCAA Division I Football Championship

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VILLANOVA, Pa. — It's been 11 years since the Illinois State football team last appeared in the semifinals of the FCS playoffs.

Villanova's Ja'briel Mace runs away from a Sacred Heart defender earlier this season.
Shadwel Nkuba II vs. Eastern Illinois
Illinois State cornerback Shadwel Nkuba II celebrates an interception earlier this season at Eastern Illinois.

Illinois State’s quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse (16) throws against North Alabama on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025., at Hancock Stadium.

CLAY JACKSON,THE PANTAGRAPH
Brock Spack on road game success
Brock Spack on road game success
Victor Dawson, Seth Glatz take over key roles in Illinois State backfield
Victor Dawson, Seth Glatz take over key roles in Illinois State backfield
SEMIFINALS BOUND: Illinois State road warriors roll into FCS semifinals
SEMIFINALS BOUND: Illinois State road warriors roll into FCS semifinals
Illinois State football slays the dragon with miracle finish
Illinois State football slays the dragon with miracle finish
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