UNI, SIU coaches swap some compliments

Southern Illinois Coach Dale Lennon has a lot of respect for the football program UNI's Mark Farley has built.

Farley couldn't say enough good things Wednesday about the Salukis and Lennon during the Missouri Valley Football Conference's weekly coaches teleconference.

It was a typical mutual admiration day for coaches about to battle with a possible league title - and FCS playoff berth - on the line.

“They're a very good football team,” Farley said during his opening statement.

What worries you the most about this “very good” team, Coach?

“That they are SIU,” he said.

The teams meet Saturday afternoon in Carbondale, Ill. - where UNI hasn't won since 1997. The Panthers are 2-0 in the MVFC, 2-2 overall. SIU, the preseason favorite, is 1-1, 2-3.

Kickoff is 2 p.m. (Mediacom Connections).

Lennon's respect comes because Farley has built his program on high school recruits, not the quick-fix junior college and FBS transfers offer.

“They are definitely a great football team, great potential ... they've got good, young talent coming up through the ranks,” he said. “The continuity is there.”

The defense continues to lead the Panthers, Lennon said, noting that's another sign of a strong program.

UNI ranks second nationally against the run, allowing 77.8 yards per game, and leads FCS at 4.25 sacks per game,

“It's a typical (UNI team) because of the way they play defense,” Lennon said. “That's the sign of a quality program.”

Lennon used the phrase “wow factor” when talking about UNI's offensive potential.

“They've got big-play ability ... with the quarterback and running back,” he said.

Quarterback Tirrell Rennie is averaging 107.2 rushing yards and 126.2 passing yards per game. Running back Carlos Anderson chips in with 101 rushing yards a game. Both topped the 100-yard barrier in last week's win over South Dakota State.

The Salukis counter with a solid defense and an offense that averages 334.8 yards a game, led by quarterback Chris Dieker with 659 passing yards.

“Their running back is an awesome player,” Farley said, presumably talking about Sharrif Harris, who is averaging 75.6 yards per game.

Farley isn't one to highlight players, preferring to focus on the team.

“They're solid,” Farley said. “They know what they are doing and they do it fast.”

- By J.R. Ogden