Redbirds Bounce Back in Week 2 Win Over North Alabama
Written by Kole Schipper on September 9, 2024
Image courtesy of Illinois State Athletics
NORMAL, Ill. – After a rough week 1 loss to the Hawkeyes, the Redbirds were able to bounce back with a tight 24-17 victory over North Alabama.
The Redbirds started early scoring on an 18-yard touchdown pass from Quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse on their first drive.
Illinois State was able to control the game for most of the first half, finishing the half up 14-3.
Turnovers were a big story for both teams, as each Quarterback threw a pick. Both teams also fumbled in the first half.
North Alabama Senior Quarterback Ari Patu finished the game with 328 passing yards and 1 passing touchdown. Junior running back Jayvian Allen led the rushing attack for the Lions with 14 rushes for 63 yards.
Redbirds Junior running back Wenkers Wright carried the workload for the rushing attack with 26 carries for 153 yards. Rittenhouse added 94 rushing yards to the attack with 2 touchdowns.
The Redbirds come back home for family weekend in Week 3 against the Western Illinois Leathernecks.
