Spack Makes History as Redbirds Dominate in Season Opener

goredbirds.com

NORMAL,Ill.- The Illinois State football team defeated the Butler Bulldogs Saturday evening at Hancock Stadium.

It was all Redbirds from start to finish as they defeated the Bulldogs 49 to 7. The Redbirds were dominant in both the passing and rushing game. ISU quarterback Bryce Jefferson finished the evening with four touchdowns, two in the air and two with his legs. Jefferson threw for 193 yards and rushed for 37. Redshirt Freshman Cole Mueller finished the day with 111 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Sophomore Nigel White added 45 yards on the ground and a rushing touchdown as well for the Redbirds.

“We came out and played hard and put up a lot of points. We did what were supposed to do.” Said Jefferson.

The Redbird defense did their job Saturday evening as they forced three Butler turnovers. Braden Price leading the way, stuffing the stat sheet with seven tackles, one sack, and two interceptions. Clayton Isbell added six total tackles and one interception on the night.

“We played well on defense; our kicking game was good today. I thought all in all it was a good first game.” Said Illinois State head coach Brock Spack.

The victory was a milestone win for Spack as he tied Edwin Struck for most wins in a career as head coach. With 86 victories at Illinois State Spack can move into sole possession with his next win.

The Redbirds will be back in action next Saturday as they travel to Kalamazoo to take on Western Michigan. ISU will be on the road for the next three weeks. They will return to Normal on October 2nd when they host the Missouri State Bears at Hancock Stadium.