Illinois State Shocks Top-Seed North Dakota State in FCS Playoffs with Bold Play

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Illinois State Shocks Top-Seed North Dakota State in FCS Playoffs with Bold Play

In a stunning upset, Illinois State shocked the top-seeded North Dakota State Bison in the FCS playoffs. The game was held at the Fargodome, where North Dakota State, a dominant force in college football, faced unranked Illinois State.

Game Highlights

Despite being 21-point underdogs, Illinois State managed to turn the game around late in the fourth quarter. North Dakota State, which entered the game undefeated and ranked No. 1, led 28-14 with less than three minutes remaining.

Key Players

Tommy Rittenhouse: Quarterback for Illinois State who threw three touchdowns, including a game-winning two-point conversion.
Daniel Sobkowicz: Key receiver, catching two touchdown passes from Rittenhouse.
Victor Dawson: His crucial runs set up scoring opportunities.
Scotty Presson Jr.: Caught the pivotal two-point conversion.

Turning Points

In a dramatic turn of events, Rittenhouse connected with Sobkowicz for an eight-yard touchdown with 2:44 left in the game, narrowing the score. Shortly after, Illinois State capitalized on a fumble by Bison quarterback Cole Payton, recovering the ball deep in Bison territory.

A critical 13-yard run by Dawson then set Illinois State up for a first-and-goal at the 10-yard line. After two incomplete passes and a minor gain, Rittenhouse found Sobkowicz once more for a touchdown, bringing the score to 28-27.

Bold Move for the Win

In a bold decision, Coach Brock Spack opted for a two-point conversion instead of settling for overtime. Rittenhouse connected with Presson Jr. successfully, giving the Redbirds a lead of 29-28 with only a minute left on the clock.

North Dakota State’s Response

North Dakota State attempted a comeback with quarterback Nathan Hayes for their final drive. However, Hayes struggled, completing only two of six passes, ultimately ceding possession on downs at their own 44-yard line.

Historical Context

This defeat marked the first time since 2009 that the Bison had their season end before the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs. That year, they finished with a disappointing 3-8 record. North Dakota State would later bounce back to claim their first of ten national championships in 2011.

Following this victory, Illinois State now advances to the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs, where they will face the winner of the matchup between No. 8 UC Davis and No. 9 Rhode Island. This advancement marks their first trip to the quarterfinals since 2019.