FCS

Blakemore, Niekamp Earn Valley Football Top Honors; Nine Redbirds Named All-MVFC Performers

Illinois State standouts Mason Blakemore and Tye Niekamp had breakout debut seasons for the Redbirds and for their efforts they earned 2023 Missouri Valley Football Conference Newcomer and Freshman of the Year honors, respectively, on Monday. In addition, the duo joined seven of their teammates as All-Missouri Valley Conference selections in the annual vote conducted by the league's head coaches, media members and sports information directors.