Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Defense dominates scrimmage
08/28/2008 | 12:00:00 | Football
Aug. 28, 2008
By Jeff Honza
SIUSalukis.com
CARBONDALE, Ill. - The Southern Illinois University defense recorded eight sacks and forced three turnovers in a dominating effort Thursday night at McAndrew Stadium.
The Saluki defense held the offense scoreless for 11-straight possessions, before quarterback Chris Dieker threw a 5-yard touchdown to Bryce Morris.
Dieker and Jeff Evans then hooked up for a 49-yard touchdown on the game's final play to cap the scoring. Dieker completed 8-of-12 passes for 124 yards on the night.
"Defensively, the experience is back and they clearly had the upper hand tonight," said head coach Dale Lennon. "Offensively, we just didn't step up and meet that defensive challenge."
Marty Rodgers had five tackles and Jason Seaman recorded three sacks to key the defense. Kyle Walker recovered a fumble and DiMarcus Wilson had two interceptions, as well.
"Our defense is very physical and fast," said Dieker. "We simply struggled to get things going."
SIU is a little over a week away from its season-opener and it can't get here soon enough.
"Right now we're at a point where we are tired of playing against each other," said Lennon.
The Salukis played in front of a nice crowd, which got their first glimpse of the new Under Armour uniforms. The offense was dressed in white jerseys and maroon pants, while the defense sported maroon jerseys and white pants.
SIU opens its 2008 season against Hampton on Sept. 6. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m., CST, at the Mac.
