CHARLESTON — It hasn't always been a “trophy game,” but it has been a rivalry game.
Illinois State travels to O’Brien Field on Saturday at 2 p.m. to face Eastern Illinois for the 106th time.
The Redbirds hold a 54-42-9 edge in the all-time series, but the Panthers have won three of five since 2012 when the game was dubbed the Mid-America Classic and a traveling trophy was introduced.
“Ever since it’s been a trophy game, our players get excited about that,” ISU coach Brock Spack said.
Eastern has possession of the trophy after last season’s 24-21 win at Hancock Stadium.