In 2014, the Illinois State University football team won the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) championship for the first time since joining the conference in 1985. The Redbirds, led by head coach Brock Spack, had a record of 10-1 heading into the championship game against the Northern Iowa Panthers.

In the championship game, played on December 6, 2014, the Redbirds dominated the Panthers, winning by a score of 41-21. Illinois State quarterback Tre Roberson threw for 278 yards and three touchdowns, while running back Marshaun Coprich rushed for 148 yards and two touchdowns. The Redbirds’ defense also played a key role, intercepting Northern Iowa quarterback Brion Carnes twice and holding the Panthers to just 71 rushing yards.

With the win, Illinois State earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs. The team advanced to the national championship game, where they fell to the North Dakota State Bison in a closely contested battle, 29-27.

Despite the loss in the championship game, the 2014 season was a historic one for the Redbirds, as they set a school record for wins in a single season and won their first MVFC championship. The team’s success also helped to raise the profile of the football program and increase support from fans and alumni.