MIKED UP: Three thoughts from Ball State's 51-28 win over Illinois State

Illinois State gives Ball State first half scare

From the beginning, Jared Barnett and Illinois State showed they weren't intimidated playing against a Football Bowl Subdivision team on the road. Barnett went 3-for-3 on the opening drive, which was capped off by Collin Keoshian's one-yard touchdown run to put the Redbirds up 7-0. Ball State responded with a touchdown of its own, but Illinois State came right back with another touchdown drive when Barnett found Anthony Warrum for a 47-yard reception. Illinois State would lead 21-9 late in the second quarter before Ball State finally figured out the Football Championship Subdivision opponent. 

Ball State takes momentum at half, fuels dominant second half 

Keith Wenning threw his first touchdown pass of the game to wide receiver Jordan Williams with four seconds remaining in the first half, cutting Illinois State's lead to 21-16. Ball State needed the touchdown as the Cardinals started the second half with possession. The Cardinals needed just two and a half minutes to take the lead in the third quarter afterWenning found Snead for a nine-yard touchdown reception. From there, it was all Ball State as they scored 35 straight points and limited Illinois State to just seven second half points.

Jordan Williams emerges 

Williams made his first career reception count with a 16-yard touchdown catch at the end of the first half. Williams finished the game with six catches for 64 yards. He trailed only Willie Snead in receptions and receiving yards. Snead finished with nine receptions for 164 yards and two touchdowns. At 6-feet-2-inches, Williams brings height to the receiving core that had been lacking size the last few seasons. The true sophomore did see limited playing time his freshman year, but against Illinois State, he showed he has the potential to be even the No. 2 wide receiver behind Snead for the Cardinals.