McLean County Times

Illinois State University is preparing to host Youngstown State University for a crucial football match on November 2, 2024. The game will take place at Hancock Stadium in Normal, Illinois, with the Redbirds aiming for their second consecutive victory. Meanwhile, the Penguins are coming off a significant win over No. 7 North Dakota and hope to continue their success.

The series between these two teams dates back to 1979, with Youngstown State holding a narrow lead of 16-15. In recent years, the Penguins have won three consecutive games against Illinois State, including a close 41-38 victory last year.

Illinois State's head coach Brock Spack has been leading the team since 2008 and has guided them to five playoff appearances. Under his leadership, the Redbirds have achieved notable successes, including an appearance in the FCS Championship game in 2014. Spack recently reached his 100th career win milestone.

Youngstown State is coached by Doug Phillips, who is in his fifth season with the team. Phillips led the Penguins to an FCS playoff appearance last year for the first time in seven seasons.

In their most recent outing against Southern Illinois, Illinois State secured a decisive victory thanks in part to sophomore linebacker Tye Niekamp's standout performance. For his efforts, Niekamp was named both the Stats Perform FCS National Defensive Player of the Week and MVFC Defensive Player of the Week.

The upcoming game also marks Military Appreciation Day at Hancock Stadium and will be broadcasted on Marquee Sports Network and streamed on ESPN+.