Redhawks defense dominates in first shutout against a Division I opponent in 30 Years

The Redhawks' defense put on a dominant display against Northwestern State University, securing their first shutout against a Division I opponent in 34 years. This marks the second shutout under Coach Tom Matukewicz, the first being a 77-0 win over Missouri Baptist in 2014.

The harsh weather conditions had little impact on the Redhawks' defense, as they allowed only 5 first downs and 120 total yards over the course of the game.

Senior defensive lineman Nasim Cairo echoed this sentiment, stating the rain was not a factor for the defense.

“I think the rain made us even more locked in, because we knew they were going to run the ball, and we knew we weren't going to let that happen. We were ready for one of those nasty, dirty types of games,” Cairo said.

The rain wasn’t the only challenge the defense faced in securing their shutout—Northwestern State rotated between two quarterbacks throughout the game.

Fortunately, the experienced defensive coaching staff, led by third-year defensive coordinator Ricky Coon, had plenty of time to prepare for the various looks they might face from Northwestern State's offense.

The Redhawks defensive line was especially impressive, allowing just 53 rushing yards and holding the Demons to a combined 1-for-12 on 3rd and 4th down conversions.

Senior linebacker Bryce Norman, the Ohio Valley Conference's leading tackler, credits the defensive line for the team's success against Northwestern.

“The D line played great. I wouldn't be as good as I am without them. They're keeping the O line off, and they've done a good job of getting pressure on the quarterback, not only last week but all season”, Norman said.

Defensive coordinator Ricky Coon was also impressed by the defensive line, in particular Sophomore defensive lineman Jaylon Stone.

“Jaylon Stone on the defensive line and had a really big game. He had a sack, a tackle for loss, and a couple of tackles, so he had a phenomenal game”, Coon said.

The Redhawks' defense was firing on all cylinders, and defensive coordinator Ricky Coon was impressed by the secondary's ability to step up in the run game and play a key role in the victory.

“They had to get out in space and make some tackles. They did a nice job doing that. I think our boundary safety Khalani Riddick is maybe the second leading tackler on our team, so he's done a good job of getting down in the box and making some tackles”, Coon said.

The Redhawks defense was effective but has been deadly in the 4th quarter this season, pitching another 4th quarter shutout against NW State. Struggling to finish games last season coach Coon is impressed by the team's ability to finish 4th quarters this season.

“We're staying focused on the back end so we're not giving up those explosive plays. I think that's really been the difference—just staying focused and learning how to finish. I think we kind of got our confidence back a little bit from last year because we lost some tough ones there. But I feel good about where we're at. I think they take pride in the process, Coon said."

Coach Coon believes the formula to maintain the momentum on defense in the future is simple.

“At the end of the day, it's about the process, right? We're not going to create any new defenses or anything. We're just going to go out, do our job, and see where we're at.”, Coon said.

The Redhawks' defense aims to continue their streak of dominance this Saturday at 2 PM as they take on Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois.