By: Howard Woodard
A matchup with the No. 2 ranked North Dakota State went about as expected for the depleted Salukis (2-5) during Homecoming weekend. The Bison walked away with a 24-3 victory as SIU struggled to muster up offensive output in this one. The Salukis had a great opening script, as they moved the ball the best they would all day on their first drive, but it ended with a fumble by freshman receiver Allen Middleton to halt the Dawgs’ momentum that they could never gain back. Although, it was a solid defensive performance from the Dawgs, especially considering the opponent. Against the Bison, the Salukis allowed about 4.6 yards per carry against running backs as NDSU continued their trend of pounding the ball on the ground as the main key to their offense. SIU also allowed only 198 yards through the air. NDSU’s 363 total yards gained was the lowest they’ve totaled all season, and their 24 points scored was the least the team has had in 13 games. SIU very well could’ve been shut out in this one, if not for a 50-yd field goal made by Paul Geelen late in the first half. He later missed a 41-yd FG and is 5/10 in those three-point situations on the year. The Dawgs continue to struggle running the football, with their running backs earning 31 yards on the day on 11 carries. QB Jake Curry was 15/27 for 152 yards, an interception, and was sacked four times. Redshirt freshman Jamond Mathis tallied the Salukis’ first sack since September 21 against SEMO. Head Coach Nick Hell referenced the team’s need for the upcoming bye week after seven games to help out guys dealing with injuries, and also to give a mental reset so they can come together and go on a run to finish the season. When the Dawgs return from their bye, they’ll head on the road to face Indiana State on Saturday, October 26 at 12 pm.
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