The Mid-America Classic between Illinois State and Eastern Illinois began in 1901 and is the oldest college football rivalry in Illinois. Despite not having played in the same conference since 1995 the two schools typically meet each year helping preserve the intense rivalry. Illinois State leads the all-time series 54-41-9, so come out and cheer on the Redbirds as they look to extend their lead.

Illinois State Redbirds vs Western Illinois Leathernecks

Rival Team: Western Illinois Leathernecks

You won’t want to miss it when the Redbirds take on in-state rivals Western Illinois. There is always a lot at stake when these two Missouri Valley Football Conference rivals meet as not only are bragging rights on the line but so are games in the standings.

Illinois State Redbirds Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Redbirds fans love to tailgate making a trip to Normal for an Illinois State game a great experience. All around campus, you’ll see Redbirds fans tailgating and having fun with friends and family. Whether you like to grill or just like to throw back some drinks with friends, you’ll enjoy tailgating at Illinois State.

You’ll find a lot of camaraderie among fans here in Normal as everyone comes out to tailgate and have a good time before the game. As long as you bring something to share, you’ll make friends quickly, so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with tailgate neighbors.

Those of you who are bringing the kids to the game will want to stop by Reggie’s Fun Zone in Horton Field House before the game. Reggie’s Fun Zone features all kinds of kids activities including inflatables, crafts, and much more, so stop by and check it out.

Tailgating is a big part of the gameday experience at Illinois State, so arrive here early and make the most out of your trip to Normal, Illinois.

Traditions

Reggie’s Fun Zone

If you’re taking the kids to the game, stop by Reggie’s Fun Zone before the game. Reggie’s Fun Zone is located in Horton Field House and opens two hours before kickoff. Here kids will enjoy inflatables, games, crafts, and even get to meet Reggie Redbird himself.

Will Robinson and Doug Collins Statue

Before heading into Hancock Stadium, stop by Redbird Arena to see the statue of Will Robinson and Doug Collins. The statue is located outside the north entrance and honors the two ISU basketball legends making it a must-see for Redbirds fans.

Where to tailgate

Redbird Tent Zone

You won’t find a better place to tailgate before the game than the Redbird Tent Zone. At the Redbird Tent Zone, you can reserve tents, catering, and group ticket packages making it the perfect place to hold your pregame event.

Public Tailgate Lots

If you want to tailgate and haven’t reserved a spot or aren’t a donor, then the public tailgate lots are the place for you. Here you’ll be able to park and tailgate before the game for $10, so just show up and join in the fun at the public tailgate lots.

RV Lots

Those of you with an oversized vehicle will want to tailgate in the south end of the G-82 lot and the S-102 overflow lot. Here you’ll find lots of other large tailgate rigs, so even if you aren’t bringing your own RV stop by to check out the tricked out tailgate vehicles.

Illinois State Redbirds Stadium Guide

In Game

Illinois State has had aThe Victory Bell is a big part of a Redbirds football game as it leads the team out onto the field and is rung after every Illinois State touchdown. The ringing of the Victory Bell works the crowd into a frenzy making it a can’t miss part of any Illinois State football game. lot of success under current head coach Brock Spack, including a trip to the FCS Championship Game in 2015, fostering a strong football culture in Normal. Fans from all over the area come out to support the Redbirds on game days creating a fun atmosphere at games. The fans here are some of the most passionate and knowledgeable in the FCS ensuring you’ll have a good time when attending an Illinois State football game. No group of fans is more passionate than the student section, known as Red Alert, so enjoy their presence when taking in a game at Hancock Stadium.

In addition to fantastic fan support, Illinois State football games also boast plenty of pageantry and tradition. The Victory Bell has been a staple of Redbirds games since the 1960s and is a must-see for any fan. You also won’t want to miss the opportunity to see the talented Big Red Marching Machine and the Redline Express. Both the band and dance team are a big part of the what makes attending a Redbirds game a special even making them must-sees for any college football fan.

You’ll have an incredible time taking in a game at Hancock Stadium, so get your tickets to an Illinois State football game today.

Things to check out

Victory Bell

The Victory Bell is a big part of a Redbirds football game as it leads the team out onto the field and is rung after every Illinois State touchdown. The ringing of the Victory Bell works the crowd into a frenzy making it a can’t miss part of any Illinois State football game.

Battle Bird

Before the game, the Redbirds touch the Battle Bird as they make their way to the field. The ceremony is what gets every Illinois State game started, so get ready to cheer on the Redbirds as they take the field when you see the Battle Bird.

Big Red Marching Machine

You won’t want to miss seeing the Big Red Marching Machine perform at Redbirds games. The Big Red Marching Machine put on incredible pregame and halftime shows and create an excellent atmosphere throughout the game with their tunes.

Redline Express

Don’t leave your seat when you see the Redline Express take the field. The Redline Express dance team will dazzle you with their routines making them a must-see part of any Redbirds sporting event.

Reggie Redbird

Illinois State fans young and old love Reggie Redbird. Reggie Redbird is the official mascot of Illinois State and one of the best parts of any ISU sporting event. He gets into all kinds of shenanigans at games, so keep an eye out for Reggie Redbird.

Red Alert

Red Alert is the official Redbirds student section, and they do an incredible job of giving Illinois State a great home field advantage. Enjoy the atmosphere created by Red Alert when attending a game at Hancock Stadium.

‹ Idaho Vandals

Indiana State Sycamores ›