MVFC Playoffs: Eastern Washington 51, Illinois State 35

Illinois State WR, Lechein Neblett, tries to break free
from Eastern Washington's Jeff Minnerly.
(Photo: AP Photo/Tyler Tjomsland)

Illinois State couldn't keep up with Eastern Washington on Saturday as the Redbirds were eliminated from the playoffs losing to the Eagles by a score of 51-35. Illinois State didn't have any trouble moving the ball up and down the field as they racked up 520 total yards of offense; however, the three costly turnovers proved to be the knife in the back for Illinois State. Missouri Valley Conference Offensive Player of the Year, Matt Brown, threw two interceptions; one which led to an Eastern Washington touchdown which was part of a quick 14-point swing to start the second half, the second was with 34 seconds left in the game in desperation time. At the end of the game Eastern Washington proved they belong in the FCS semi-final game next week against Sam Houston State. Although the Eagle defense gave up so many yards, they proved to be opportunistic and create the turnovers at just the right time.

2012 will be a season to remember for Illinois State; 9-4, a second-round win at Appalachian State in OT, and the MVFC Offensive MVP, all contributed to an outstanding season for the Redbirds. I'll be honest, it will be very strange seeing someone else quarterback the Illinois State offense next year. Without speculating too much on next year for Illinois State, they'll lose 13 seniors including big offensive performers, Tyrone Walker, Matt Brown, and Darrelynn Dunn. The Redbirds also lose big-time offensive line contributor Cary Pete, however, that is the only loss to the offensive line. Defensively, Illinois State loses a bit more and will need to replace star linebackers, Mike Zimmer, Austin Davis, and Evan Frierson. Here is a complete list of the outgoing players from Illinois State: