PrairieStatePigskin @PSPigskin Twitter profile

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

2 years

Welcome #FCS fans, we now have a new website that covers the four Illinois FCS programs. Check us out at

Prairie State Pigskin

All Illinois. All FCS.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Former @RedbirdFB defensive lineman turned ISU DC @CoachNiekamp will soon have two sons, Tye & Dexter, as Illinois State players. Tye is expected to be a contributing LB this fall. Brother Dexter, a prep 6-foot-4, 225-pound DE/TE, has committed to play in Normal. #FathersDay

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

According to a graphic on the ESPNU #FCSPlayoffs selection show, @EIU_FB was the first team left out. Eastern Illinois (8-3 overall, 4-2 in Big South-OVC), led by head coach Chris Wilkerson, quadrupled its win total from a year ago. EIU was 8-2 against FCS opponents.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

. @SIU_Football QB @Nic_baker4 made 24 starts over the last 2 seasons . . . completing 504 of 767 passes (65.7%) for 5,981 yards . . . throwing for 47 touchdowns while being intercepted 18 times. Baker returns for his sixth & final year this fall.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Top returning tacklers from Illinois FCS teams: Juan DelaCruz, @WIUfootball , 88 tackles Elijawah Tolbert, @EIU_FB , 70 tackles P.J. Jules, @SIU_Football , 66 tackles Dillon Gearhart, @RedbirdFB , 61 tackles

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

It's 50 days until @RedbirdFB head coach Brock Spack opens his 15th season in Normal as Illinois State hosts Dayton for a noon kickoff Sept. 2 at Hancock Stadium. Spack, ISU's all-time wins leader, needs five wins to reach 100 in his coaching career.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

The Illinois FCS returning pass breakup leaders for 2023: P.J. Jules, DB, @SIU_Football , 7 J.J. Ross, DB, @WIUfootball , 6 Nick Coates, DB, @EIU_FB , 5 Dillon Gearhart, DB; Lavoise-Deontae McCoy, LB; Jeff Bowens, DB; and Josh Dinga, DL, @RedbirdFB , 2 each

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

Western Illinois University holds the distinction of being the only non-military institution to officially have its nickname derived from a branch of the military service. The school began use of the Marine Corps’ official nickname, “The Fighting Leathernecks,” in 1927. (1/2)

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

The Illinois FCS returning interception leaders for 2023: Elijawah Tolbert, LB, @EIU_FB , 3 in 2022 Jeff Bowens, DB, @RedbirdFB , 2 Branson Combs, LB, @SIU_Football , 2 J.J. Ross, DB, @WIUfootball , 2

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Top returning receivers from Illinois FCS teams: D'Ante' Cox, @SIU_Football , 3 TDs, 696 yards Daniel Sobkowicz, @RedbirdFB , 3 TDs, 377 yards Justin Bowick, @EIU_FB , 3 TDs, 250 yards Jaylin Jackson, @WIUfootball , 0 TDs, 174 yards

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

The Illinois FCS returning sack leaders for 2023: Dewey Greene, DT, @SIU_Football , 4.0 in 2022 Joel Barrows, DE-LB, @EIU_FB , 3.0 Josh Dinga, DL, & Dillon Gearhart, DB, @RedbirdFB , 3.0 Jake Detiveaux, DL, @WIUfootball , 3.0

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Flipping the script: @EIU_FB producing one of the season’s biggest FCS turnarounds

Flipping the script: EIU producing one of the season’s biggest FCS turnarounds

Eastern Illinois has the opportunity to quadruple its win total from a year ago if the Panthers can win their regular season finale Saturday at Robert Morris.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

Southern Illinois' PJ Jules ( @OfficialIamPj4 ) lands at No. 84 on Bruce Feldman's College football Freaks List 2023. "A 6-1, 210-pound safety from Orlando who led his team in tackles (66) and PBUs (7) in 22, Jules is one of the best players in FCS and a legit NFL prospect . . . "

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

It's 50 days until @WIUfootball kicks off its second season under head coach @HendricksonWIU Sept. 2 at New Mexico State.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

5 months

Western Illinois set to hire Eastern Illinois offensive coordinator as next head coach, national writer @PeteThamel reports. Prairie State Pigskin has background information on @WIUfootball 's choice

Western Illinois hires Eastern Illinois offensive coordinator as next head coach

Joe Davis, a longtime offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, will replace Myers Hendrickson at WIU.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

7 months

Linebacker @ryancrandall4 played 3 sports in high school & became a mainstay in the @WIUfootball lineup as a true freshman. @BarryOnCampus shares his story along with tidbits such as facts about his home state of Iowa & his feelings about Ranch dressing.

Moving the Chains with … Western Illinois linebacker Ryan Crandall

Ryan Crandall is an Iowan who dislikes Ranch dressing and a linebacker who made an impact right away on the Western Illinois defense.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

Brock Spack, the winningest coach in @RedbirdFB history, needs five more wins to reach 100 for his career. Give us a follow for your year-round Illinois State 🏈 coverage.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Eastern Illinois head coach Chris Wilkerson is one of 20 finalists for the 2023 Eddie Robinson Award. Wilkerson's @EIU_FB Panthers finished with an 8-3 record (4-2 in Big South-OVC) & a No. 24 ranking in final AFCA Coaches regular season poll.

FCS Football

@FCS_STATS

6 months

Congratulations to the 2023 Eddie Robinson Award Finalists in FCS college football. #TeamFedEx #FedEx

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

Solid bill of health gives @RedbirdFB sound piece of mind to build its offense moving forward. Prairie State Pigskin was at Illinois State's spring game this past Saturday and has the latest on head coach Brock Spack's team.

Healthy Illinois State offense revs up as spring practice turns toward summer

The Redbirds came out of spring ball relatively unscathed by injury, according to team officials.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Second-year @EIU_Panthers @FB_Coach_Wilk will have his son @PeytonWilkerso2 join his roster this fall as a freshman recruit. In addition, Wilkerson will coach the sons of former EIU 🏈players Brad Fichtel & Jamie Pilson. Wilkerson's daughter Bella plays 🥎 at Illinois State.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

It's #FathersDay2023 & that reminds us that Brock Spack had both his daughter Alicia as @RedbirdFB director of football operations & coached his son Brent during his tenure at Illinois State University. Spack is set to begin his 15th season as ISU head coach.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

It's #FathersDay2023 every day for @WIUfootball . 2nd-year HC @HendricksonWIU & his dad Mark are together again in Macomb. Mark was the Leathernecks HC 2008-12 (when his son played) & WIU OC 1999-07. Mark was also an assistant to Myers at Kansas Weslyan prior to the return to WIU.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

5 months

Western Illinois Leatherneck alumni, leading tackler invigorated by their newly hired head coach. What do the WIU faithful like about Joe Davis? As it turns out, a number of things. @WIUfootball @WIUFBAlumni

Leatherneck alumni, leading tackler invigorated by newly hired coach

Newly hired Joe Davis has won over Western Illinois football alumni before even holding a practice.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

2 years

The 110th edition of the Mid-America Classic kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Saturday when Illinois State hosts Eastern Illinois. The rivalry is the 8th longest played non-Ivy League #FCS series between schools (16th overall among FCS schools counting the Ivy League).

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

Permission was granted to then-athletic director/head ⚾️,🏀 & 🏈 coach Ray “Rock” Hanson by the U.S. Navy, based on his status as a Marine, to use the Marine’s official seal and bulldog mascot along with their nickname. (2/2)

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Eastern Illinois RB M.J. Flowers & Illinois State LB Tye Niekamp are two of the 22 finalists for the Jerry Rice Award, which honors the FCS Freshman of the Year.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

7 months

Eat, sleep, football, repeat: At Western Illinois and Southern Illinois, women lead and inspire in football operations roles. @BarryOnCampus shares their stories.

Eat, sleep, football, repeat: At Western Illinois and Southern Illinois, women lead and inspire in...

When Western Illinois and Southern Illinois meet Saturday on the field, their female directors of football operations will have played a huge role in getting the teams ready.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Miles that will be traveled for road games in 2023 🏈 season by Illinois #FCS schools: @WIUfootball 4,503 @SIU_Football 2,273 @EIU_FB 1,938 @RedbirdFB 1,872

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Southern Illinois receives an at-large bid to the #FCSPlayoffs . The Salukis (7-4 overall, 4-4 in Missouri Valley 🏈 Conference) will host Nicholls (6-4) at 1 p.m. CST Saturday in Carbondale. That makes 3 postseason berths in the last 4 seasons for head coach Nick Hill's team.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

It's 50 days until @SIU_Football opens its season hosting Austin Peay at 6 p.m. Sept. 2 in Carbondale. It will be the start of the 8th season under head coach & former Saluki QB @17NickHill

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

One of the prime reasons for @EIU_FB success this fall is turnover margin. CB Russell Dandy ( @russell_dandy ) shares insight as to how & why along w/ thoughts on Halloween 🎃, Thanksgiving 🙏 & what Business Insider called "the most boring city in Georgia"

Moving the Chains . . . Eastern Illinois cornerback Russell Dandy

Russell Dandy has made big plays for the ball-hawking Eastern Illinois secondary this season.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Western Illinois is hoping to name its next football head coach by Dec. 8, athletic director Paul A. Bubb says, adding that “over 40 candidates” have applied.

WIU hoping to name next head coach by Dec. 8, athletic director says

WIU athletic director Paul A. Bubb said that “over 40 candidates” have applied for the Leatherneck football position.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Versatile Merklinger leads revamped @WIUfootball offensive line into season opener at FBS New Mexico State. @BarryOnCampus has your detailed preview.

From guard to tackle to center, new WIU lineman Merklinger offers versatility

New Western Illinois offensive lineman Ryan Merklinger will start at center Saturday when the Leathernecks open the season at New Mexico State.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Panthers won't stop believin' as @EIU_FB rallies past McNeese on the second longest field goal in school history. Here's how it happened and who delivered.

Panther rewind: Galloway’s long field goal completes EIU’s second-straight comeback win

Stone Galloway’s 56-yard field goal completes Eastern Illinois 31-28 victory over McNeese.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Panthers rewind: Defense slams door, locks up @EIU_FB 's first winning season since 2017

Panther rewind: Defense slams door, locks up Eastern’s first winning season since 2017

Eastern Illinois used two interceptions and four sacks in the fourth quarter Saturday to hold off Lindenwood, 16-10.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Southern Illinois & Eastern Illinois got much-needed wins today. SIU (7-4 overall, 4-4 MVFC) & EIU (8-3, 4-2 Big South-OVC) keep their #FCSPlayoffs berth hopes alive. Follow us for coverage after tomorrow's 24-team bracket announcement, 11:30 a.m. CST on ESPNU.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Final AFCA Coaches regular season poll: 🏈 Southern Illinois Salukis, No. 17 🏈 Eastern Illinois Panthers, No. 24 🏈 Illinois State Redbirds, NR, 13 votes SIU hosts Nicholls at 2 p.m. Saturday in the 1st round of the #FCSPlayoffs

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

Eastern Illinois ( @EIU_FB ) longest 🏈 tenures: 🏈 Charles Lantz 25 yrs (1911-34, '44) 96 wins 🏈 Bob Spoo 25 yrs (1987-2011) 144 wins 🏈 Maynard O'Brien 9 yrs (1946-50, '52-55) 27 wins 🏈 Ralph Kohl 8 yrs (1957-64) 17 wins 🏈 Clyde Biggers 7 yrs (1965-71) 18 wins

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

2 years

"Most consistent guy" & sophomore captain leads @EIU_FB into Nashville's Nissan Stadium as Panthers tackle Tennessee State in an Ohio Valley Conference matchup. Here's your Prairie State Pigskin preview.

Consistency key to EIU LB Bohanek’s game as Panthers strive to contend in OVC race

Chicago Marist High School graduate shows leadership and solid play.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Eastern Illinois ( @EIU_FB ) aims for its 8th win, playoff consideration as Panthers travel to Pennsylvania to face Robert Morris. Here's our preview of Saturday's regular season finale.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Eastern Illinois ( @EIU_FB ) knocks off rival Illinois State in waning seconds to raise the Mid-America traveling trophy for the 1st time since 2016.

Panther rewind: EIU takes back Mid-America Classic trophy with victory over ISU

The Panthers made big plays on offense, defense and special teams to rally past their their rival at O’Brien Field.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Average yards per play for opponents in 2022 against Illinois #FCS schools: @RedbirdFB 4.9 @SIU_Football 5.3 @EIU_FB 5.9 @WIUfootball 6.3

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Celebrating in style: Illinois State @RedbirdFB rides birthday boy's career-day to conference-opening victory.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Six @EIU_FB players land on Big South-OVC Football Association All-Conference first team: RB MJ Flowers, WR Eli Mirza, OL Chad Strickland, LB Elijawah Tolbert, DB Blake Ruffin, DB Russell Dandy. 🏈Flowers wins Offensive Freshman of the Year 🏈Chris Wilkerson, Coach of the Year

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

Juan DelaCruz, @WIUfootball 's top returning leading tackler, was named to the Missouri Valley 🏈 Conference preseason 2nd team Tuesday. DelaCruz collected 88 tackles & a team-best seven quarterback hurries in 2022.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

5 months

Tradition, opportunity draw new @WIUfootball head coach Joe Davis to Macomb. Here's what he had to say.

Tradition, opportunity draw new Western head coach Joe Davis to Macomb

Former Eastern Illinois offensive coordinator takes over a Leatherneck program long on tradition, lean on recent wins.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

Our Fresh Faces series focuses today on Macomb, where @WIUfootball RB Seth Glatz aims to build off of his impressive contributions late last fall. @BarryOnCampus also highlights 3 key transfers: 2 in the defensive backfield & 1 in the offensive line.

Fresh Faces: Taste of success in 2022 has Western RB Glatz thinking big

Seth Glatz’s 78-yard rushing performance in November against Illinois State has the former Illinois prep standout thinking big in 2023.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

7 months

“The guys just found at way. That’s kind of been this team’s MO," @EIU_FB head coach Chris Wilkerson following the Panthers' 19-10 win at Northwestern State (La.) Here's how it happened. ⬇️

Panther rewind: EIU outlasts Northwestern State for third straight win

The EIU Panthers overcame numerous errors yet found a way to win at Northwestern State (La.) in nonconference action Saturday night.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

2 years

Revamped run defense features @SIUSalukis ‘being the hammer and not the nail’ as Coach @17NickHill 's team strives for its 6th straight victory – the longest since 2009. Here's our preview of Saturday's upcoming road game at South Dakota.

Revamped run defense features Southern Illinois ‘being the hammer and not the nail’

Southern Illinois has revamped its run defense this fall and is allowing nearly 100 fewer yards per game than a year ago.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

With strong support from @WIUFBAlumni , Western Illinois football wraps up spring practice with an eye toward returning to its past winning ways. Prairie State Pigskin was in Macomb Friday & posts a look at the @WIUfootball offense.

WIU seeks balance in its offense as Leathernecks strive to return to glory

Second-year head coach Myers Hendrickson sees spring success as catalyst to fall improvement.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

Last week's early signing day brought @EIU_FB a state champion in Mt. Carmel QB @BlaineyDowling , a recruit that @EDGYTIM describes as, "He’s a kid that I think schools will look back on and say, ‘what were we thinking?’"

Early signing day ’22: Eastern Illinois ‘thrilled’ about adding state champion QB

The Panthers are also excited about versatile athletic added players.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Eastern Illinois ( @EIU_FB ) out to "win the trip" in quest to match start not seen since the days of Jimmy Garoppolo. 🏈Here's your EIU at Northwestern State (La.) preview.

EIU strives to keep its winning streak alive with trip to Louisiana’s Northwestern State

Eastern Illinois seeks its first 4-1 start to a season since the days of Jimmy Garoppolo.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

Myers Hendrickson, @WIUfootball head coach, said tomorrow's controlled scrimmage & Saturday's practice (the last before classes start) will go a long way in determining WIU's QB race for the Sept. 2 opener. Clay Bruno, Matt Morrissey & Nathan Lamb are all competing for the job.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

Playoff appearances (1st time/last time) for Illinois #FCS programs @EIU_FB 16 (1982/2015) @WIUfootball 11 (1988/2017) @SIU_Football 10 (1983*/2021) @RedbirdFB 8 (1998/2019)** *SIU 1983 national champions 🏈 🏆 **ISU 2014 national runners-up

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

We are in Charleston at O'Brien Field for the 111th meeting between Illinois State (2-0) & Eastern Illinois (1-1). Today's Mid-America Classic kicks off at 2 p.m. The Redbirds have won the last five meetings with the Panthers & are ranked No. 25 in this week's FCS Coaches Poll.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

The Super Bowl may be over, but @SIU_Football fans can watch former Saluki OL @Zaytoven59 & DB Roman Tatum at 7:30 p.m. Saturday as the #XFL season gets underway. Furcron will wear No. 59 & Tatum will wear No. 24 for the @XFLGuardians .

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

5 months

Illinois FCS 2024 season openers: 🏈 Aug. 24, EIU at Illinois 🏈 Aug. 31, ISU at Iowa 🏈 Aug. 31, SIU at BYU 🏈 Aug. 31, WIU at NIU ⚡️This will mark the first time that all 4 Illinois FCS schools will open with FBS opponents.⚡️

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Coming off an emotional win over an arch-rival, @EIU_FB turns its sights toward a non-conference opponent it has never beaten. Frontline defense, QB protection & special teams will all play key roles.

Defensive depth has EIU pursuing third consecutive FCS victory

Eastern Illinois hosts McNeese, it has never beaten, Saturday at O’Brien Field in Charleston.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

was in Normal yesterday for @RedbirdFB media day. Team officials tell us the indoor facility is nearing completion. Lights have been installed & the turf will soon be laid out.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Southern Illinois ( @SIU_Football ) hosts Southland Conference champion Nicholls in Saturday’s opening round of the #FCSPlayoffs . Saluki fans, here's our capsule for you to get to know the visitors from Lousiana a little better.

Opponent capsule: Nicholls, SIU’s 1st-round FCS playoff foe, a 7-time FCS postseason participant

Southern Illinois hosts Southland Conference champion Nicholls in Saturday’s opening round of the FCS playoffs.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

Today is 100 days until @EIU_FB opens the 2023 season against regional rival Indiana State in Terre Haute.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

Former @EIU_FB WR Alexander Hollins ( @ahollins13 ) ranks 4th among #CFL leaders with 32 receptions in seven games. Hollins, the last EIU player to have over 1,000 receiving yards in a season (2018), has 459 receiving yards and two touchdowns for the BC Lions.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

SIU lends a helping hand to stranded opponent hours after playoff win. @SIU_Football @Nicholls_FB

SIU lends a helping hand to stranded opponent hours after playoff win

Southern Illinois athletic staff provided food and drinks for the Nicholls football team, which endured 22 hours at a nearby airport.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

7 months

Australian Jacob Horvath ( @JacobHorv ) has been quite a find for @EIU_FB . He's handled punting & holding duties well. In our weekly Q&A he discusses coming to America, how his coach's wife helped him settle in & what Americans get wrong about his home land.

Moving the Chains with … Eastern Illinois punter Jacob Horvath

Native Australian Jacob Horvath shares his experiences of leaving his home country to punt for Eastern Illinois University.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

40 years ago: @SIU_Football won the 1983 NCAA I-AA national championship. "Our defense was like the '85 Bears in its dominance," said QB Rick Johnson. Read all about it in SIU Salukis Football from @siupress #FlashbackFriday

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Former @SIU_Football QB turned Salukis HC Nick Hill called it "one of the biggest plays that I’ve been a part of." Meet Desman Hearns ( @d1_dez ), the redshirt freshman who made it. Dez talks about his gamechanger, life in Florida & the team's best rapper.

Moving the Chains with . . . Desman Hearns, Southern Illinois safety

Fresh off his game-changing forced fumble and recovery in SIU’s comeback win over Southeast Missouri, Desman Hearns shares how he turned the tide.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

With @EIU_FB clinging to a 31-28 lead Saturday, McNeese still had a chance. That's when Ira Armstead ( @IRAK3N_II ) delivered a sack that not only set the Cowboys back 8 yards, but also cost them their final timeout. Earlier this year, we shared Ira's story.

Once a top QB recruit, EIU’s versatile Armstead settling into hybrid defensive role

The South Bend, Ind. native will don a new uniform number and play a new spot for Eastern Illinois this season.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Top returning rushers from Illinois FCS teams: Wenkers Wright, @RedbirdFB , 2 TDs, 625 yards Ro Elliott, @SIU_Football , 3 TDs, 476 yards Kendi Young, @EIU_FB , 1 TD, 280 yards Clay Bruno, @WIUFootball , 1 TD, 177 yards

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

Let the countdown begin: @WIUfootball kicks off its 2023 season 100 days from today at FBS New Mexico State. Give us a follow to get all your Leatherneck football coverage.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

Eastern Illinois 🏈 ( @EIU_FB ) introduced a white @RiddellSports Axiom helmet into its uniform array this season. The likely plan is to mix and match white, blue & black jerseys & pants throughout the season "to add a little flavor," according to equipment manager Clint Bays.

Eastern Illinois Football

@EIU_FB

9 months

❄️👀 #WeNotMe | #BleedBlue

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

2 years

With Murray State set to join the Missouri Valley Football Conference next fall, Saturday's Southern Illinois at Illinois State game will be the last time the 2 rivals will face each other for 2 years. The last fall season in which the Salukis & Redbirds did not play was 1969.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

5 months

Western Illinois has officially announced Joe Davis as the 32nd head football coach in Leatherneck history. We've got details on the hiring as well as on Davis's background and qualifications.

Western Illinois hires Eastern Illinois offensive coordinator as next head coach

Joe Davis, a longtime offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, will replace Myers Hendrickson at WIU.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Southern Illinois 🏈will log 2,273 miles for its 6 road games this season. @SIU_Football 's shortest trip is 48 miles to play regional rival Southeast Missouri. The shortest @ValleyFootball game is 114 miles to Murray State. The longest is 897 miles to play at North Dakota State.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Flowers blossoms as ‘defensive & special teams’ bonanza sparks @EIU_FB to 7th victory

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Eastern Illinois 🏈 ( @EIU_FB ) will travel 1,938 miles this fall for 6 road games. The Panthers' closest away game is 47 miles to Terre Haute to open the season with Indiana State. The longest trek is 719 miles to Natchitoches, Louisiana to play Northwestern State.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Panther rewind: @EIU_FB achieves first 8-win season since 2013, awaits FCS playoff possibilities

Panther rewind: Eastern achieves first 8-win season since 2013, awaits FCS playoff possibilities

Eastern Illinois earned a 28-14 victory against Robert Morris to secure an eight-win season. The Panthers now await the FCS playoff announcement.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

Eastern Illinois DL @Cameron_leach25 will play his final collegiate 🏈 game Saturday. The @EIU_Panthers mainstay will forgo his final year of eligibility to pursue a master's degree in law. Leach explains his decision & more in our Moving the Chains Q&A.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

In September and October, the @WIUfootball schedule will be heavy on travel. The early dates include plane flights to New Mexico State (Sept. 2), Southern Utah (Sept. 23), North Dakota (Oct. 7) and NDSU (Oct. 21).

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Defense delivers @EIU_FB to meaningful football in November as the Panthers host Tennessee State Saturday in Charleston. @BarryOnCampus has your preview of this key Big South-OVC Alliance matchup.

Defense delivers Eastern Illinois to meaningful football in November

A stingy defense has helped Eastern Illinois football to six wins and FCS playoff consideration this season.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Eastern Illinois ( @EIU_FB ) got contributions in its season-opening win at Indiana State from a trio of transfer skill players: QB @pierceholley1 , WR @emirza_3 & RB @kevin_daniels22

Skill position newcomers put spark into Eastern Illinois offense

QB Pierce Holley, WR Eli Merza and RB Kevin Daniels all played roles in the Panthers’ season-opening win.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

With the #CWSOmaha underway, we remember NFL veteran WR Kevin House,2-sport athlete @SIUC . A 1977 @SIUSalukis CWS team member, he was drafted by the Cardinals & White Sox while at Carbondale. He wound up a 2nd-round pick of the Buccaneers, catching 299 passes & 34 TDs in 8 years.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Southern Illinois safety & Illinois State linebacker Amir Abdullah are among those listed as finalists for the Buck Buchanan Award as the top defensive player in FCS.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

Illinois State will enjoy a lot of home cooking this fall. @RedbirdFB will not leave the state of Illinois until an Oct. 21 road game at Youngstown State. ISU's first 6 games include four at home and trips to Macomb and Charleston.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

2 years

Being on the visitors' sideline at Minnesota's Huntington Bank Stadium will be unique for @WIUfootball RBs coach Donnell Kirkwood, a former @GopherFootball running back. "I've never been on that sideline other than to grab a trophy."

For Western Illinois RBs coach, return trip to Minnesota is a walk down memory lane

Western Illinois running backs coach Donnell Kirkwood expects a flood of emotions when the Leathernecks play at Minnesota, his alma mater.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

Western Illinois ( @WIUfootball ) longest coaching tenures: 🏈 Ray "Rock" Hanson 16 yrs (1926-41) 51 wins 🏈 Don Patterson 11 yrs (1999-2009) 63 wins 🏈 Randy Ball 9 yrs (1990-98) 98 wins 🏈 Art Dufelmeieir 9 yrs (1960-68) 37 wins 🏈 Bruce Craddock 7 yrs (1983-89) 41 wins

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

5 months

Kicker Drew Schiller of Lincoln-Way Central HS announces he will attend Eastern Illinois. Schiller trains with Chicago-area kicking coach Chris Nendick, who finished his NIU career with the second most FGs in program history & a 108-straight PAT streak.

Drew Schiller

@schiller_drew

5 months

I am extremely excited to announce that I will further my athletic and academic career at @EIU_FB ! Thank you to all my friends, family, coaches and trainers! Ready to get to work! #WeNotMe @CoachDerickson @FB_Coach_Wilk @CNendick25 @Chris_Sailer @LWC_KnightFB

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

From yesterday's @EIU_FB camp: "I tell the team every year that the biggest improvement as a team happens from game one to game two. I believe as a coach, your biggest improvement comes from season one to season two." @FB_Coach_Wilk (1/3)

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

7 months

When Jaylin Jackson’s phone blows up with text messages, there's a good possibility it’s a discussion about the @WIUfootball offense & fellow WR Jay Parker & QB Matt Morrissey are included. @BarryOnCampus has the story & a Leatherneck Homecoming preview.

From group chat to game days: WIU WR Jackson catching on with new QB

Wide receiver Jaylin Jackson has 21 catches over the last three weeks for Western Illinois and is among the MVFC leaders in receptions.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Spack spreads the love after reaching 100th career victory for Illinois State. That & more on @RedbirdFB from @BarryOnCampus

Spack spreads the love after reaching 100th career victory at Illinois State

Brock Spack thanked players, coaches, administrators and fans Saturday after reaching his 100th career victory at Illinois State.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Southern Illinois 🏈( @SIU_Football ) is in DeKalb today to face FBS Northern Illinois. Both teams enter the contest fresh off opening week victories. Here's your SIU preview.

Opening game romp allows for young SIU players to gain big-game experience

The nationally ranked Salukis (1-0) travel to DeKalb to play FBS member Northern Illinois (1-0).

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

9 months

Western Illinois will play its final season in the Missouri Valley 🏈 Conference this fall. "We’ll have something extra in the tank," says @WIUfootball head coach @HendricksonWIU .

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Australian Jacob Horvath gets off a 57-yard punt, his first as an American collegian. Indiana State takes over at its own 31. 5:29 left Q1

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

8 months

Former @CaravanFootball kicker Julian Patino lifts Eastern Illinois to rivalry victory. Check out his amazing story. ⬇️🏈⚽️🏈⬇️

From the pitch to gridiron, Patino provides winning kick for EIU Panthers

Eastern Illinois kicker returns from the soccer team to provide a game-winner.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

A picture of perseverance: @WIUfootball LB took a unique path to Macomb. @BarryOnCampus shares the story of Anthony Quinney's remarkable college football journey.

A picture of perseverance: Western LB Quinney took a unique path to Macomb

Western Illinois linebacker Anthony Quinney took more than two years off after high school and spent time at junior colleges in two different states.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

2 years

'Iron man' @nickcoates_ breaks into role as an impact player for @EIU_FB . The Panthers seek their third win of the season Saturday at McNeese State.

‘Iron man’ Coates thriving in new role this fall for Eastern Illinois defense

Sophomore Nick Coates has become EIU’s fourth-leading tackler at safety this fall after transitioning from cornerback.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

1 year

Southern Illinois ( @SIU_Football ) has a new defensive coordinator but has veterans the likes of DB P.J. Jules ( @OfficialIamPj4 ) to rely on. @BarryOnCampus takes a look at the Saluki defense.

Veteran Southern Illinois DB P.J. Jules continues learning, growing, making plays

Veteran Southern Illinois defensive back P.J. Jules led the team in tackles and pass breakups a year ago, but is ready to do more.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

7 months

Zack Annexstad came to @RedbirdFB as a transfer QB from a Big Ten Conference program. His leading receiver this season – sophomore Daniel Sobkowicz – arrived at ISU as a walk-on. It's their connection that now propels the Illinois State passing game.

Connection between QB, top receiver providing big benefits for Illinois State

Illinois State QB Zack Annexstad said he didn’t throw Daniel Sobkowicz a single ball for a year. Now, Sobkowicz is the Redbirds’ No. 1 receiver.

prairiestatepigskin.com

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

10 months

50 days from now, @SIU_Football opens its season with a home game against Austin Peay highlighted by a bobblehead giveaway featuring former Saluki safety @ChinnJeremy2 , who now plays in the #NFL

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

6 months

Illinois State @RedbirdFB linebacker Tye Niekamp is the 2023 Missouri Valley Football Conference Freshman of the Year. Niekamp, the son of ISU DC Travis Niekamp, started all 11 games. He tied for second on the team in tackles. He also had 9 TFLs, 7 PBUs, 7 QBH & 1.5 sacks.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

11 months

Leaves 🍂 falling on the Cedars: Western Illinois 🏈 will rack up 4,503 miles in 6 road games this fall. @WIUfootball 's shortest trip is 210 miles to Cedar Falls, Iowa to play Northern Iowa; its farthest trip is 1,459 miles to Cedar City, Utah to face Southern Utah.

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PrairieStatePigskin

@PSPigskin

5 months

According to , @WIUfootball will play two FBS opponents in 2024. The Leathernecks, under new head coach Joe Davis, will open Aug. 31 at Northern Illinois and then play Sept. 7 at Indiana.

FBSchedules.com | College and Pro Football Schedules

A fan site for college football schedules (FBS and FCS), pro football schedules (NFL, XFL, USFL, and CFL), future schedules, and more.

fbschedules.com

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