Sat Sep 20 16:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

The Illinois State Redbirds football team, currently ranked No. 4, are working to improve their pass defense, which ranks low in the FCS. Coach Brock Spack emphasizes the importance of team defense and proper technique. Despite talent in the secondary, inexperience and lack of familiarity are potential issues. Players acknowledge the need for better execution. While the pass defense struggles, the rushing defense ranks third nationally. Quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse had a strong performance recently, and Coach Spack is pleased with the progress of the passing game. The Redbirds are preparing to face North Alabama, a team they defeated last year, with Coach Spack noting improvement in their opponent’s offensive and defensive lines.

**News Article:**

**Redbirds Focus on Defensive Improvement Ahead of North Alabama Matchup**

NORMAL, IL – The No. 4-ranked Illinois State Redbirds are honing in on their pass defense as they prepare to face North Alabama in a Family Weekend nonconference game at Hancock Stadium this Saturday. Head Coach Brock Spack has stressed the need for improved execution and technique after the Redbirds allowed 411 passing yards to Eastern Illinois last week, ranking 109th in FCS in passing yards allowed per game.

“It’s very technical,” Spack stated. “You have to be very good with your technique or you’re going to get beat. We’ve got to stop doing that. That will cost us in the Missouri Valley for sure.” Spack even held a demonstration at practice to illustrate defensive concepts.

While acknowledging potential growing pains with new transfers and players stepping into bigger roles, junior college transfer safety La’Shavion Brown dismissed inexperience as the sole issue. “As long as everybody does their job, we’ll all be good and on the same page,” Brown said. Cornerback Shadwel Nkuba II echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for players to execute the plays called.

On a brighter note, the Redbirds boast a strong rushing defense, ranking third nationally. Quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse is also showing progress in the passing game, throwing for 299 yards and three touchdowns in his last outing.

The Redbirds defeated North Alabama last season and are preparing for a Lions team Spack believes is improved, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines.

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