Oklahoma vs. Illinois State: College football preview

College Football season is off the ground with full schedules and matchups that could decide the course of the entire season. Sports Director Toby Rowland sits down with Voice of the Redbirds John Fitzgerald to talk about the state of both teams heading into the season opener on Saturday in Norman.

Watch the full conversation below, or follow along for the biggest takeaways:

Game Preview and Matchup

1. Oklahoma and Illinois State are meeting for the first time in this season opener, which has generated excitement among fans and both broadcasting teams.
2. Illinois State comes off a successful season, having returned to the FCS playoffs and is ranked preseason number six in the FCS poll.
3. The Missouri Valley Football Conference, where Illinois State plays, is considered tough and competitive, with three of the final four teams last year from the league.

Illinois State Program Insights

1. Head Coach Brock Spack is highlighted as an effective, defensive-minded leader with a long tenure and a no-nonsense, old-school football philosophy; he’s credited for multiple playoff appearances and fostering a positive culture.
2. Team Strengths and Weaknesses:
3. This year, the offense is regarded as the stronger unit, which is atypical for the team, as the defense has lost several key players but gained some depth via the transfer portal.
4. Quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse is seen as a developed dual-threat who poses problems for defenses, especially with his running ability.
5. Running back Ryon'e Winters is noted for being a powerful north-south runner who had over 1,000 yards last season and frequently requires multiple defenders to tackle.
6. Wide receiver Dylan Lord and slot receiver Eddie Kasper are key playmakers, with Lord returning strong from injury and Kasper known for yards after catch.

Season and Program Outlook

1. Biggest concerns include the offensive line's ability to protect and the need for the new defensive secondary and front players to gel, especially after replacing several All-Americans.
2. Last season’s playoff run revitalized the fans and raised excitement, with notable returning players and continued enthusiasm around head coach Brock Spack’s leadership.

Illinois State Background and Notes

1. Prominent football alums include Cam Grandy (Cincinnati Bengals), Keondre Jackson (Baltimore Ravens), Jalan Gaines (Seattle Seahawks), and Tanner Taula (NFL career with Dolphins and Buccaneers).
2. Traditional rivals are Eastern Illinois for football and Bradley University for basketball; recent FCS rivalry includes North Dakota State and South Dakota State.
3. The team slogan is "Roll Birds," akin to “Roll Tide”.