Like I said... Illinois State is playing well, but SEMO is doing nothing but favors for them

Turnover #5 for SEMO... 2nd pick 6

SEMO imploded giving up 4 turnovers in the 2nd quarter: interception thrown into double/triple coverage, a batted pick 6, and 2 fumbles. Illinois State had 1 very nice bomb for a TD, but the theme has been SEMO just not protecting the ball.

I don't know the history between these 2 teams, but they are playing like they HATE each other... Not just playoff energy.

Illinois State is playing well, but they are definitely benefitting from SEMO imploding.

nope another turnover

Things falling apart for SEMO now. 2 or 3 turnovers and losing a starting defensive player due to ejection

It was a starting CB too... On an extra point attempt. Talk about not controlling the emotions.

And an ejection for spitting for SEMO

SEMO is looking stronger than advertised

Illinois State QB down with injury

Well there was SEMO's passing attack

Illinois State runs a pretty balanced offense, but are only scoring 27.3 points per game (29.8 points per game if you take out the game against Iowa). If SEMO breaks off some explosive scoring plays with their passing game it may be harder for the redbirds to catch up.

I think Illinois State's defense is pretty underrated though. Again take out the game against Iowa and they are only allowing 21.8 points per game and just 14.3 over the last 4 games of the season.

Battle of the red avian! Looking forward to see who we will be taking on next week. If I had to guess Illinois State takes this one. SEMO has a potent passing attack, but have been on a downward trajectory after a strong start to the season.

I don't think Miles will ever be considered a dual threat QB. Even dating back to HS he's the definition of a pocket passer. He can scramble if needed, but he is the least mobile QB currently on our roster by what I would consider a wide margin.

I'm guessing that we will have a thunder and lightning RB rotation next season with Vargas and Fisher. Tough to replace the productivity of a Walter Peyton level player in Lan, but I think that we're in good hands. I think adding in the wrinkle of a QB who actually can take designed runs will change the look of the offense somewhat.

New offer on transfer portal WR/TE hybrid, Cameron Barmore, out of Mercyhurst University. Stands at 6'6 230 lbs and had 913 receiving yards and 13 TDs this last season. Already has double digit offers since entering the portal.

I know some folks on the Sac forum are worried he's going to transfer if changes aren't made to the coaching staff.

Sagarin Ratings
UCD 102
ISU 114
SEMO 169

Massey Matchup
ISU @ SEMO - ISU 56% chance of winning
ISU @ UCD - UCD 70% chance of winning
SEMO @ UCD - UCD 76% chance of winning

Just in case folks didn't know, the early signing period is earlier than in years past. Last year it started on December 20th, this year on December 4th so it's really right around the corner. I'm guessing we might see another commitment or 2 before that date.

Ha! I was waiting to see if it looks like they're gonna win before signing up