Carbondale Reporter

In a decisive victory, Southern Illinois University (SIU) triumphed over Murray State with a 62-0 win at Saluki Stadium. The game was marked by senior quarterback Michael Lindauer's remarkable performance, setting a school record with seven touchdown passes in his first and only career start.

Lindauer's journey to this achievement is notable. Having retired from football last spring without attempting a collegiate pass, he had turned to coaching as a graduate assistant due to injuries that hampered his playing opportunities. However, the team's quarterback roster was severely affected by injuries this season, leading to Lindauer's return to active play in Week 8.

Lindauer stepped into the starting role after freshman Jake Curry sustained a hamstring injury in Week 10. SIU head coach Nick Hill praised Lindauer's perseverance: "It's a testament that if you stay committed, do the right things, have a great attitude, you're going to get rewarded at some point, and he was rewarded in a big way today."

The Salukis' offense gained momentum late in the first quarter when Lindauer connected with Bradley Clark for a 35-yard touchdown. The second quarter saw four more touchdowns from Lindauer — two each to Nah'shawn Hezekiah and Keontez Lewis. In the third quarter, Lindauer added two more touchdowns, including the record-breaking pass to Jay Jones.

Reflecting on his performance, Lindauer expressed gratitude: "To go out like that… Love everybody in that locker room. There's a reason I want to stay here and work with this staff. This place is incredible, Coach Hill is incredible." He completed 20-of-33 passes for 283 yards without interceptions.

Coach Hill acknowledged the significance of Lindauer's accomplishment: "That will be a hard record to beat — seven TDs in one game," adding that he played exceptionally well.

The victory margin against Murray State was the largest against any Division I opponent at Saluki Stadium and ranked as the tenth largest all-time for SIU. Redshirt freshman Allen Middleton also contributed significantly by rushing for 124 yards after being moved from wide receiver to running back.

On defense, linebacker Shug Walker led with an impressive performance against his former team Murray State. Walker emphasized his motivation came from supporting SIU’s seniors: "Every single senior — Coach Hill went through them all last night — we're proud to have those guys."

Southern Illinois finished their season positively with two wins in their last three games despite numerous injuries throughout their lineup. Coach Hill highlighted how they maintained resilience: "We talked about how we want to be known for how we finish — your commitment... These guys did that."

Looking ahead, Hill mentioned there would be time for reflection on improving but stressed enjoying this victory momentarily: "It obviously wasn't the season we envisioned or wanted but today my focus is enjoying this tonight."