Southern Illinois at Drake

The recent king of the MVC, Southern Illinois goes on the road as a dog, to battle Drake. Is there something wrong here? No, it is the changing of the guard atop the MVC. Drake comes into this game at 10-1, unbeaten at home and is poised to show that they are going to be a force in the MVC this season. The Salukis have already dropped more games than they did all of last regular season and come in limping to an uncharacteristic 6-6 record. They have always been a top team at home, but vulnerable on the road and never so evident as this season. The Salukis have played three games on the road, are 0-3, and shooting 32.7%, and just 25.9% from three-point range, and connecting just 64% at the line. They have 53 made baskets and 42 turnovers! Drake is allowing just 39% in six home games, and have really forced the turnovers as they have forced 128, averaging 21.3 a game. The 128 turnovers forced exceeds the FGs they have allowed which stands at 118. If you think this isn't a big-time game for Drake guess again. They have been tortured by Southern Illinois. They have suffered 17 straight losses and haven't beaten them since Feb. of '99. They have lost three at home by one point and another in OT. The talent table has turned and Drake will go for the jugular tonight.