A Higher Glyphic

Media Credit: James Durbin Saluki football players Kenny Walker (left) and Deji Karim storm the field after SIU's thrilling upset win over Northern Illinois.

When Jerry Kill and his Salukis strolled up to a refurbished Huskie Stadium at the start of the season, they felt somewhat out of place.

The fresh facilities around them were a far cry from the decrepit McAndrew Stadium they call home on a bimonthly basis during the fall season.

But flash fell to fury and grit triumphed over glamour as the Salukis defeated the favored Huskies in a thrilling 34-31 victory.

The historic win meant more for both teams than just one "W" and "L" in the schedule. It set the tone for a successful season for the semifinal finisher Salukis and for a disappointing season for the struggling Huskies.

It also ushered in a new era for both teams after the season, as longtime SIU coach Kill departed for the team he upset in such a shocking manner after the season's end.

But as that sour memory subsides, all that remains of one fateful Saturday in the minds of all that were present is one lasting sense - anything can happen.

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