Fourth-ranked South Dakota State secured a dominant 52-16 victory over Southern Illinois on Saturday afternoon at Saluki Stadium.
The win clinched at least a share of the Missouri Valley Football Conference title for the Jackrabbits, “according to Yahoo Sports.”
South Dakota State quarterback accounted for a career-high five touchdowns, featuring three passing scores and two rushing scores.
Coupled with Youngstown State’s loss to Illinois State, the Jackrabbits also earned the conference’s automatic playoff berth.
The team extended its winning streak to four games while improving its overall record to 9-2 and conference standing to 6-1.
Southern Illinois fell to 5-6 overall and 3-4 in league play following the contest.
The Jackrabbits established control early when the starting quarterback capped an opening drive with a 12-yard touchdown run.
SDSU later extended the advantage through the air when an 89-yard scoring connection stunned the Saluki secondary.
The visiting defense put together a stellar opening quarter by limiting the hosts to just one first down and 20 total yards.
Southern Illinois got on the board late in the first half through quarterback D.J. Williams and Tae Marrero Jr.
The pair connected on a 25-yard touchdown pass before the break.
The Salukis then became the first team to score against SDSU on an opening second-half drive this season via a field goal.
However, the Jackrabbits responded aggressively by scoring touchdowns on all four of their possessions during the final two quarters.
SDSU finished the afternoon with a commanding 623-254 advantage in total offense.
The visitors also established season highs in passing yards with 431, first downs with 35, and time of possession.
Local coverage on “KELOLAND.com noted” that the program achieved multiple historical milestones during the decisive road performance.
The Jackrabbits will now look to capture the conference title outright when they host Indiana State for their regular-season finale.