Illinois State at Southeast Missouri State
Illinois State was widely regarded as a seed coming into the final weekend before being snake bitten by Youngstown State. The offense is very limited and averages just under 300 yards per game. This is incredible since the Redbirds have running back James Robinson, who averages over 100 on the ground himself. Quarterback Brady Davis is better than his numbers show, which is pretty fortunate, they’re not that flattering. As inept as the offense seems at times, the defense is stout, ranking 12th nationally. Other than their game with North Dakota State, they’ve not given up more than 27 points in a game.
Southeast Missouri State steams into the playoffs winners of six in a row and eight of nine. That one loss to Austin Peay ended up being the one that cost them the Ohio Valley Conference automatic. Nevertheless, the Redhawks are ready to go. The connection of Daniel Santacanterina and Kristian Wilkerson is one of the best in the last month. It will be interesting to see them test the Redbirds defense. SEMO’s defense is average by overall numbers, especially when compared to the outfit they’re matched up with.
This is a classic offense from one side versus the defense from the other. There are two common opponents between these two: Eastern Illinois and Southern Illinois. Both went 2-0 against each. Ironically, each team won by 18 against one and 14 against the opposite. Expect a tight one here.
Prediction: Illinois State 17, Southeast Missouri State 16
