Southern Illinois University came up just short of a win on the gridiron in its season opener when the Salukis lost to Florida Atlantic 38-30 on Saturday in Boca Raton, Florida.
Siusalukis.com reported that new Salukis quarterback Josh Straughan shined by going 36-for-51 passing for 367 yards and a touchdown and no interceptions. Straughan, who transferred to SIU from Stillman College, was named the Missouri Valley Football Conference Newcomer of the Week for his efforts. His passing-yard total was the fourth-most nationally in the first week of the season.
Daquan Isom led the Salukis in rushing against Florida Atlantic with 80 yards on five carries. Connor Iwema had eight catches for 103 yards receiving.
On defense, Chase Allen led Southern Illinois with 11 tackles.
The Salukis will have their home opener against Southeast Missouri at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10. According to GoSoutheast.com, SEMO lost at Memphis 35-17 on Sept. 3. Will Young had 123 yards and a touchdown on 17 carriers for SEMO, and the Redhawks defense forced three turnovers.
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