Missouri State appears to be getting Indiana State’s best performance.

The 20th-ranked Bears, a 20-point favorite, maintain a 17-15 halftime lead at Plaster Stadium on Saturday.

The homecoming crowd at MSU (4-2, 2-0 Missouri Valley Football Conference) watched as Bears quarterback Jacob Clark was sacked four times and the Sycamores made a number of big plays – including a 64-yard reception on the first attempt . a drive capped by a short touchdown run by Waynesville graduate Shen Butler-Lawson in their surprise attempt.

A Clark strip sack recovered by the Sycamores on the Bears’ 16 led to a 14-yard touchdown connection between Elijah Owens and Rashad Rochelle, giving Indiana State (2-4, 1-1 MVFC) a 15-10 lead provided.

But Clark (12 of 15 for 173 yards) and company were still efficient. The junior quarterback responded by driving the Bears down the field and finding James BlackStrain open on a 24-yard touchdown connection that had the Georgia Tech transfer moving between two defenders.

Missouri State’s rushing game was held to 48 yards on 18 carries.

Robinson’s status unclear

MSU receiver Jmariyae Robinson caught three passes on Missouri State’s first drive but appeared to be shaken by a reception that helped land the Bears deep in ISU territory. He needed the help of a trainer when he left the field and has not returned.

Joe out

Lemondre Joe, one of Missouri State’s premier cornerbacks, is unfit today, the latest in a string of injuries to the Bears’ defense.

Ryan Collingwood

Sports reporter

Ryan Collingwood covers college and high school sports in the Springfield area for the Daily Citizen. Do you have an idea or point of criticism? Email [email protected], call or 417-837-3660 or follow Ryan on social media at X.com/rwcollingwood. More from Ryan Collingwood