Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Dieker named starting quarterback
08/29/2008 | 12:00:00 | Football
Aug. 29, 2008
By Jeff Honza
www.SIUSalukis.com
CARBONDALE, Ill. - Redshirt-sophomore Chris Dieker will be Southern Illinois University's starting quarterback entering the 2008 season, head coach Dale Lennon announced Friday.
Dieker, who hails from Topeka, Kan., sets to make his first career start against Hampton on Sept. 6.
"Chris came out of spring ball as our number one quarterback and maintained that spot through pre-fall," said Lennon. "We're going to continue with him as our starter."
Dieker and true sophomore Joe Allaria went down to the wire in the quarterback race this preseason. Although Dieker edged Allaria for the starting job, Lennon says he plans on using both QBs.
"Joe will definitely be involved in the offensive game plan," confirmed Lennon. "We're very fortunate to have two good quarterbacks of their caliber."
Dieker completed 1-of-2 passes for 12 yards and ran the ball four times for 30 yards in two games for the Salukis a year ago.
Meanwhile, Allaria saw action in 10 games, completing 11-of-21 passes for 106 yards. He also rushed for 188 yards and one touchdown on 30 attempts.
Both played behind Nick Hill, who served as the Salukis' starting quarterback the last two seasons.
