A significant addition has been made to Illinois State's football calendar as they announced a matchup with Northwestern in 2030. This game will take place at the renovated Ryan Field, set to debut in 2026. Over the next six years, ISU is scheduled to play several high-profile FBS opponents, including Oklahoma, Northern Illinois, Missouri, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Coach Brock Spack expressed excitement about this opportunity, highlighting the importance of these games for recruiting players from the Chicagoland area and engaging local fans. The 2030 encounter marks the third meeting between the two schools, following previous contests in 2010 and 2016, where ISU secured a memorable victory.
The Redbirds have lined up an impressive series of matchups against top-tier teams over the coming seasons. Starting with their clash against Oklahoma in 2025, ISU continues its challenging schedule by taking on regional heavyweights such as Northern Illinois, Missouri, Illinois, and Wisconsin before concluding this stretch with Northwestern in 2030. These matches not only provide exposure but also serve as crucial benchmarks for the development of the program under Coach Spack’s leadership.
Brock Spack emphasized that these encounters against Big Ten foes offer invaluable experience for his team. He noted that playing before hometown audiences often motivates both recruits and current players alike. One standout moment in recent history was the dramatic triumph over Northwestern in 2016 when Sean Slattery’s last-second field goal sealed a narrow 9-7 win for Illinois State. Such victories underscore the competitive spirit within the team and inspire future generations of athletes.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming showdowns, particularly the one slated for 2030, there is optimism among supporters regarding what lies ahead. Fans eagerly await another potential landmark occasion reminiscent of past successes like the historic 2016 matchup. With renewed facilities awaiting them at Ryan Field and increasing visibility through tough schedules, Illinois State aims to build upon their legacy while fostering growth within their athletics department.