CFB D2 Game Preview: McKendree Bearcats (0-0) vs. Indiana State Sycamores (0-0)

Game Details

Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET

Memorial Stadium

Preview Summary

The Sycamores host the Bearcats at Memorial Stadium in Terre Haute, Indiana, on Thursday, August 28, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 6:00 p.m. ET. McKendree aims to build on late-season momentum, while Indiana State looks to extend its hosting dominance in non-conference openers. Expect a clash of up-tempo spread concepts against a veteran defensive front.

Season Context

Indiana State won four of its last five matches in 2024, showcasing a late-season surge under third-year head coach Curt Mallory. McKendree closed last season 3–2 in its final five contests, highlighting improvements on both sides of the ball under head coach Jared McDowell.

Team Overviews

Indiana State Sycamores

Head Coach: Curt Mallory (3rd season)

2024 Record: 7–5 (5–3 MVFC)

Offense:

Returning quarterback leading a balanced attack

Improved offensive line with three returning starters

Defense:

Emphasis on takeaways and third-down stops

Senior front seven anchors against the run

McKendree Bearcats

Head Coach: Jared McDowell (5th season)

2024 Record: 3–7 (1–4 GLVC)

Offense:

Spread-based system to exploit mismatches

Dynamic slot receivers and dual-threat quarterback

Defense:

Aggressive blitz packages to pressure quarterbacks

Young secondary aiming for turnovers

Key Storylines

Non-Conference Statement: Indiana State seeks consistency as home favorites, while McKendree chases its first win over an FCS opponent.

Tempo vs. Tenacity: The Bearcats’ no-huddle pace tests Sycamores’ defensive conditioning.

Coaching Duel: Curt Mallory’s third-year progress against Jared McDowell’s rebuild strategy sets an early season tone.

Tactical Matchups

McKendree Offense vs. ISU Defense: Spread runs and quick screens against a Sycamore front that excels in gap discipline.

ISU Offense vs. McK Defense: Play-action and power-run schemes to challenge Bearcat linebackers in space.

Head-to-Head

This will be the first-ever meeting between Indiana State and McKendree at the varsity level.

What to Watch

First-Quarter Pace: Disciplined tackling on quick WR screens could shut down McK’s early rhythm.

Third-Down Defense: Sycamores aim to hold Bearcats under 40% conversion rate.

Turnover Battle: Ball security versus aggressive blitzing schemes will dictate momentum.