FARGO, N.D. – No. 8/9 Southern Illinois University’s winning streak came to an end Saturday, as the Salukis fell to No. 1/1 North Dakota State 45-17. The loss halted SIU‘s momentum after a strong start to the season.
The Bison took an early lead, capitalizing on a Southern Illinois fumble during a promising drive. North Dakota State extended their advantage before halftime, leading 17-10. They continued to build on that lead in the third quarter,scoring two touchdowns to move ahead 24-10. A 41-yard rushing touchdown by Cole Payton increased the Bison’s lead to 31-10.
Southern Illinois quarterback Niccolo Williams connected with receiver Vinson Davis III for a 40-yard gain in the second half, but a subsequent fumble by receiver Jake Jones stalled the drive. Williams finished the game with 15-of-29 passing for 190 yards, adding 41 rushing yards adn one touchdown on 15 carries. chapman contributed 31 rushing yards and a touchdown on nine carries. Jones and Fabian McCray each recorded 52 receiving yards.
Williams scored a 3-yard rushing touchdown, his team-leading 10th of the season, late in the game.
Defensively,Vontrell Chairse registered his third sack of the season,extending his streak to three consecutive games with a sack. Jagger Williams led the Salukis with eight tackles.
Southern Illinois will return home for two consecutive games, beginning with the Blackout Cancer Game against No. 12/13 North Dakota at 2 p.m. on Saturday, oct. 18. They will then host the University of Northern Iowa at 2 p.m.on Saturday, Oct. 25, during Homecoming.
