TEAM UPDATE: SIU Coach Nick Hill Talks Team Resilience After Tough Match and Motivation for Future
SIU’s Strong Showing Amidst Challenges and Preparation for Next Fixture
Southern Illinois University’s head football coach, Nick Hill, is no stranger to resilience, a quality that has become essential for his team this season. After a challenging match against No. 17-ranked Missouri State, in which the Salukis faced a 24-0 deficit before mounting a comeback attempt, Hill reflected on the grit and determination displayed by his players. Although the game ended in a 38-17 loss, there were significant moments that highlighted the potential within the team, giving Hill reason to remain optimistic about the future.
In the post-game interview, Hill stated, “I like the grit, the fight, to be down 24-0, to come back and make it a game there in the third quarter. We just have to find a way to complete a comeback.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the context of a season that has presented its share of obstacles. With a record of 2-7 and an 0-5 standing in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, the Salukis have faced tough opponents and fierce competition, yet Hill’s focus remains on the development of his players and the lessons they are learning along the way.
The first half of the game against Missouri State was particularly challenging for Southern Illinois. Their offense struggled to gain traction, failing to register a first down until midway through the second quarter. Hill noted that this struggle was not indicative of the team’s capabilities, but rather a hurdle they needed to overcome. “Little went right for Southern’s offense in the first half,” he explained, highlighting that the team had been working hard to find rhythm and execution in their game plan.
A turning point came at the end of the first half, when true freshman quarterback Jake Curry took command of the offense. In a commendable effort, he led a 75-yard drive over 13 plays, showcasing not only his leadership but also his ability to execute under pressure. Hill praised Curry’s performance, stating, “Jake’s scrambles and quarterback draws — any way we can spread them out and run the football to find success in the run game.” Curry’s ability to contribute both in the air and on the ground was crucial, as he ended the game with 105 passing yards, an interception, and 85 rushing yards on 15 attempts.
The highlight of the half came from kicker Paul Geelen, who executed a fake field goal that turned into a 15-yard touchdown run. This unconventional play exemplified the creative strategies Hill is employing to motivate and energize his team. “Paul’s an athletic kid,” Hill remarked. “He played multiple sports growing up. He can run, he’s one of the fastest guys on our team, and utilizing him in some of those situations is key for us.” Such moments of innovation not only inspire confidence within the team but also energize the fanbase, emphasizing a culture of creativity and adaptability.
The second half opened with renewed vigor as the Salukis marched 79 yards in 12 plays, culminating in another touchdown from Curry, who showcased his mobility and decision-making. “Jake’s just going to continue to learn,” Hill mentioned, indicating the coaching staff’s commitment to developing Curry, who was thrust into the starting role after injuries sidelined key players. With only three starts under his belt, the experience gained during these games is invaluable for his growth as a quarterback.
While the offense found its footing in the second half, the defense also played a critical role in keeping the game competitive. Despite being placed in challenging situations due to offensive struggles, the Salukis’ defense managed to contain one of the top offenses in the FCS, limiting Missouri State to 357 total yards. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and resilience of the defensive unit, which recorded four sacks and forced two crucial turnovers in the red zone. Hill expressed pride in their performance, stating, “We got back-to-back stops to start the game. They had scored on their opening drive in four-straight games. We made it a grind for them to get going.”
This season has been a learning experience for Southern Illinois, and despite the losses, the character and resilience displayed by the team provide a foundation for future success. The ability to bounce back from adversity and fight until the final whistle is an invaluable lesson for the players, one that Hill emphasizes in his coaching philosophy. “You’re going to learn daily at practice; you’re going to learn with every opportunity that you get,” he noted, reinforcing the importance of perseverance in both sports and life.
However, Hill is optimistic about the remaining games and the potential for growth among his players. With five games left in the regular season and the chance to qualify for the Mountain West conference tournament, the Salukis still have opportunities to showcase their capabilities. The experience gained from tough matches will be essential as the team continues to build chemistry and cohesion on the field.
Moreover, Hill’s motivation goes beyond just winning games; it is about instilling a sense of purpose and determination in his players. He understands that the journey is as important as the destination, and he is committed to ensuring that his athletes develop not just as players but as individuals. “I want to make sure I’m standing strong that only women should be in women’s sports,” he stated, which reflects his commitment to the principles of fairness and equality in athletics, even as he leads a men’s team.
As the Salukis prepare for their next matchups, the lessons learned from their struggles and successes will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the team’s future. The camaraderie built during challenging times, coupled with the resilience they have shown, creates a strong foundation for the upcoming season. Hill’s emphasis on grit and determination will be key as the players look to finish the season strong and carry the lessons learned into their future endeavors, both on and off the field.
The challenges faced by Southern Illinois University’s football team this season have not deterred their spirit. Coach Nick Hill’s focus on resilience, growth, and team unity will continue to motivate his players as they strive to improve and achieve their goals. The foundation being laid through hard work, creativity, and a commitment to excellence sets the stage for a promising future, as the Salukis look to turn their efforts into wins in the coming games.