By: Howard Woodard
The Salukis (2-4) are no longer ranked after their third straight loss this past weekend vs Illinois State at home. Not a lot went right for the Dawgs in the 45-10 loss, highlighted by backup QB Hunter Simmons breaking his tibia in the third quarter, a season-ending injury. It leaves the Salukis currently with one healthy QB on the roster, true freshman Jake Curry, as starter DJ Williams broke his hand in the third game of the season and true freshman ET Harris dislocated his shoulder before the season began. The Dawgs’ defensive struggles continued as the lack of a pass rush and a tendency for their corners to get beat on the outside is a nightmare combination for the unit. All six touchdowns SIU allowed were scored from 20+ yards from the end zone. The Salukis cut it to a two-score game at 24-10 when kicker Paul Geelen knocked in a 27-yd field goal midway through the third. They had opportunities to cut closer and potentially take the lead as the defense got some quick stops and Curry had stretches of good plays. But his two interceptions in the red zone along with Geelen missing two field goals put the nail in the coffin as the Redbirds couldn’t be denied with advantageous field position. Curry finished 8-for-19 with 133 yards and Simmons was 16-for-28 with 160 yards. Keontez Lewis continued his strong season as he hauled in seven catches for 153 yards. Once again, the running backs couldn’t put together much success on the ground as Simmons was the leading rusher with 82 yards and a touchdown on six carries. Another alarming stat was the 12 flags thrown on the Dawgs for 109 yards. They were also 4-for-17 on 3rd down, a rate that isn't commonly associated with winning games. Curry will get his first collegiate start in a very tough situation, as No. 2 North Dakota State will come to Carbondale for Homecoming Weekend this Saturday, October 12 at 2 pm.
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