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Salukis keep their heads

Bloomington - Perhaps the best measurement of the 2004 SIU football team's greatness occurred mundanely on a clear, sun-soaked Saturday in Bloomington, Ill., after the No.1-ranked Salukis clinched, at the least, a share of the Gateway title by trouncing Illinois State 41-14.

There was just a simple, stoic jaunt to the locker room after the game had ended, as if Gateway dominance and playoff berths have been the status quo instead of the 20 years of futility that had become synonymous with the program before Jerry Kill became head coach.

"The experience we had last year, we were all so excited about it," said SIU quarterback Joel Sambursky, comparing this season's conference title to the one last year. "And I think our excitement affected how we played. Now it is more business-like, and that comes with maturity and having been there before."

The only noticeable celebration came from offensive lineman Natu Visinia, a redshirt freshman who waved his thick arms up and down to the SIU fan section at Hancock Stadium.

For even the cautiously optimistic, there is sense of assurance and a sense of attitude with the Salukis that no matter the team or scheme they face, they won't be stopped.

Throughout the season it has seemed for every third and long, there has been a quick slant to Quorey Payne for a first down. For every long pass that appears to have been a touchdown written all over it there is cornerback Yemi Akisanya's hand to knock it away at the last moment.

Saturday was no different.

Sambursky, who further cemented his place atop the SIU passing records by throwing for 256 yards and three touchdowns, said despite being shutout in the first quarter, players realize it only takes one play to get the offense rolling. And it would happen sooner or later.

The one pivotal play -- a bone-crushing stick by Brandon Bruner that popped the ball out of return Joe Walkins' hands. The Salukis went on to score 24-second quarter points from then on. The game that had been so competitive throughout the first quarter would quickly become a yawner.

"With us, it is just a matter of time," Sambursky said. "Our defense gave us that time. If we sputter on a drive or two, our defense has been great to not allow them to get up on us ... we got our pace and started putting up points."

With No. 5 Western Kentucky pulling out a narrow 28-24 victory against Southwest Missouri State, the Salukis still must win next week against Indiana State to clinch an outright title, which eluded them last year. And the Sycamores of Indiana State appear to be headed for the Saluki buzzsaw that has dominated the Gateway opponents by a score of 249 to 78.

"In my opinion, this is the best Gateway conference football team I've ever seen," said Illinois State head coach Denver Johnson. "I just think they have no soft spots. They are good in every place and they have great talent in some spots.

"This is an outstanding football team. You got to tip your hat to them."