Carbondale Reporter

The Southern Illinois University football team will host North Dakota in the annual Blackout Cancer game on Saturday, October 18, at Saluki Stadium in Carbondale. The Salukis, ranked No. 12, will face the No. 9/11 North Dakota team in a Missouri Valley Football Conference matchup, with kickoff set for 2 p.m.

The Blackout Cancer game is sponsored by the SIH Foundation. The event features black jerseys worn by players, which are auctioned off before the game. Each jersey displays the name of a loved one who has battled cancer. Proceeds from the auction support the SIH Cancer Institute, which is marking its 10th anniversary.

Southern Illinois is coming off its first FCS loss of the season, falling to No. 1 North Dakota State by a score of 45-17. The Salukis allowed a season-high 45 points and turned the ball over three times, including two fumbles in Bison territory. The team totaled 313 yards of offense, with 190 passing and 123 rushing yards. North Dakota State gained 540 total yards against SIU.

Despite the loss, Southern Illinois remains strong in several statistical categories. The team averages 39 points per game, ranking 12th nationally and third in the conference. The Salukis also have one of the top rushing offenses in the country, averaging 220.8 yards per game, which is 11th in the FCS.

Quarterback DJ Williams has contributed significantly, throwing for 1,404 yards and 11 touchdowns with only three interceptions through six games. He leads the team with 427 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns, which is tied for the most among all FCS quarterbacks. Williams is also among national leaders in points responsible for, total offense, and passing efficiency.

Wide receiver Vinson Davis III has surpassed his previous career highs this season, recording 31 receptions for 547 yards and three touchdowns through six games. Davis ranks second in the conference and 11th nationally in receiving yards.

On defense, Southern Illinois has forced 11 turnovers, tied for second in the conference and 17th nationally. The team’s turnover margin is tied for fifth in the conference and 27th in the country. Cornerback Jeremiah McClendon leads the league with eight pass breakups.

North Dakota enters the game with a 4-2 record and is undefeated in conference play. The Fighting Hawks average 39.3 points per game and allow 18.8 points per game on defense. Quarterback Jerry Kaminski has thrown 17 touchdown passes this season.

The Salukis lead the all-time series against North Dakota, 3-1, and are undefeated at home in the matchup.

Fans can follow the game on ESPN+, The Varsity Network, or listen locally on 101.5 CIL-FM. Tickets are available online.