South Dakota State Jackrabbits vs Illinois State Redbirds Predictions

Quarterback uncertainty clouds a close matchup

The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reports that backup quarterback Josh Holst ran South Dakota State's offense in last week's 42-7 win over Eastern Illinois. No available report confirms Saturday's quarterback plan, which makes it difficult to lay 1.5 points with the Jackrabbits on the road.

Illinois State also enters at 4-1 after a 28-21 loss at Northern Iowa in its Missouri Valley Football Conference opener. The Redbirds now return to Hancock Stadium, where the small spread reflects how little separates these teams in the SPF market.

Prediction and betting view

South Dakota State is the more likely winner based on its -124 moneyline, but that price and the -1.5 spread aren't worth backing without confirmed quarterback availability or broader matchup data. The 53.5 total also lacks supporting offensive, defensive, and weather information. Pass on the game.