Illinois State senior offensive guard Dan Hama has been named the Gateway Football Conferences Offensive Lineman of the Week for his work in last Saturdays game at Western Illinois.
Illinois State rushed for more yardage than any team had against Western Illinois this season (including Missouri) when the Redbirds rolled up 188 yards on 45 carries -- an average of 4.2 yards per attempt. Western Illinois entered the game surrendering just 127.4 yards per game and just 3.2 yards per carry.
Illinois State piled up 330 yards of total offense against the Gateways No. 1-ranked defense, which entered the contest giving up just 251.3 yards per game. In addition, the Redbirds chalked up 18 first downs against a defense that allows an average of 13.7.
Hama had seven knock down blocks and no missed assignments. ISU did give up two sacks, but neither was made by a rusher assigned to Hama.
Earlier this week, ISU linebacker Tim Beshel was named the Gateways Defensive Player of the Week.
Illinois State, which knocked off the then-No. 4-ranked Leathernecks, entertain No. 20 Eastern Illinois Saturday at Hancock Stadium.
