Ball State might have the best offense in the MAC, but right now the Cardinals offense is struggling to be the best in their match up with Illinois State.
Cardinal outgained 154-88 in the first, allowing eight yards a play.
— Ben Breiner (@BenBreinerTSP) August 29, 2013
BSU is in the midst of a battle that is much more lopsided than the score suggests.
The Redbirds have stuffed BSU's rushing attack, holding Jahwan Edwards to just 21 yards on seven carries. Keith Wenning has struggled to make up for the slack. In fact, despite his rushing touchdown in the first quarter and 177 yards on 15-of-25 passing, he didn't toss a TD until there was four seconds left in the half, cutting ISU's lead to 21-16. With four seconds left in the half Wenning hooked up with receiver Javond Williams on a beautiful 16-yard touchdown, breathing life into the Cardinals offense right before half.
But, redbird quarterback Jared Barnet has played fantastic, tossing for two TDs and 190 yards in the first half, and has the Cardinals playing with their backs against the wall.