SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — In an impressive performance, Jacob Clark connected on two touchdown passes, while Jayden Becks accumulated 101 rushing yards and two touchdowns as Missouri State triumphed over Southern Illinois with a score of 38-17 on Saturday.

This victory marked Missouri State’s seventh consecutive win, bringing their record to 7-2 and securing their position at 5-0 in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. They currently trail conference leader North Dakota State, who holds a record of 9-1 and is undefeated in conference play with a 6-0 tally.

Clark had a strong outing, completing 22 of his 33 attempts for a total of 213 yards. He kicked off the scoring with a 13-yard touchdown pass to DVontae Key in the opening quarter. He later extended the Bears’ lead to 17-0 with a 15-yard touchdown pass to Hunter Wood with just over five minutes left in the second quarter.

Becks added to the scoreboard with a 29-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter and capped off his day by pushing over the line from the 1-yard mark later in the game. Additionally, Jacardia Wright contributed with a rushing touchdown for Missouri State.

On the other side of the field, Southern Illinois’ Jake Curry completed 15 of 33 passes for a total of 105 yards and also rushed for 85 yards on 15 carries. His notable contribution included a 16-yard touchdown run that cut Missouri State’s lead to 17-7 just before halftime.

This was a decisive matchup that showcased Missouri State’s continued dominance in the conference and a strong offensive display that kept their winning momentum alive.