Elbert and S. Illinois Defense rolls over Murray St. 49-10

MURRAY, Ky. (AP) — Michael Elbert returned a fumble 73 yards for a score in the third quarter to seal a 49-10 victory as Southern Illinois tied a school record with three defensive scores over Murray State in the season opener for both schools on Thursday night.

The Salukis forced six turnovers with two interceptions and four fumble recoveries. Two of the fumble recoveries resulted in touchdowns as Qua Brown scooped up a fumble after a Murray State pass completion and ran 23 yards for a score to give Southern Illinois a 13-3 lead early in the second quarter. Airan Reed picked off a Murray State pass in the end zone to score for a 21-3 advantage in the second quarter.

D.J. Davis led the Saluki offense, rushing for 127 yards on 19 carries. Sam Straub threw for 107 yards and one score.

Drew Anderson threw for 138 yards, completing 17 of 30 attempts with the two interceptions to lead Murray State.