Illinois State’s Avaloy earns MVFC weekly honors

Posted on November 17, 2015
Kyle Avaloy
Kyle Avaloy had seven knockdowns and did not allow a sack in ISU’s win over SIU on Saturday. (Photo courtesy GoRedbirds.com)

By ISU Sports Information

ST. LOUIS – Illinois State junior offensive lineman Kyle Avaloy and the rest of the offensive line helped the Redbirds put up season-best numbers on the ground in a 42-21 road win at Southern Illinois on Saturday.  For his work against the Salukis, Avaloy was named the MVFC Offensive Lineman of the Week by the conference office Monday.

This is the first weekly honor of the season for Avaloy and the second for a Redbird offensive lineman.  Center Mark Spelman earned MVFC Offensive Lineman of the Week honors on Oct. 26, following a strong effort in a Homecoming win over Western Illinois.

Avaloy graded out at 97 percent at his left guard position and was credited with seven knockdowns while not allowing a sack, as the Redbirds improved to 8-2 on the season.  ISU set season bests in rushing yards (372), yards per rush (7.9) and scored all six of its touchdowns on the ground against SIU.  The Lombard, Illinois, native was also instrumental in blocking the way for Marshuan Coprich who earned MVFC Offensive Player of the Week honors after leading the country with 254 yards rushing and scoring three touchdowns in the victory.

The Redbirds will close out the regular season at home on Saturday, when they host South Dakota (5-5, 3-4 MVFC) at Hancock Stadium. With a win, the Redbirds will clinch at least a share of the MVFC championship for the second year in a row.  Kickoff is set for noon.

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