South Dakota defense dominates for 7th win, 42-0

VERMILLION, S.D. -- Andrew Gray returned an interception a school-record 97 yards to help lead South Dakota to a dominating 42-0 win over Southern Illinois on Saturday as the Coyotes got to seven wins in a season for the first time at the FCS level. Mike Johnson stole one in the final quarter, returning it 80 yards for another score as Tanner Hearn was intercepted four times. South Dakota (7-1, 4-1 Missouri Valley Conference) was without the services of senior quarterback Chris Streveler who was injured on the first drive of the game. Austin Simmons stepped in, completing 11 of 18 passes for 91 yards and two touchdowns. Streveler was throwing passes on the sideline in the second half, but the Coyotes led 28-0 late in the third, so he remained out. Michael Fredrick rushed for 94 yards and a touchdown. Darrell James had 105 yards receiving for the Salukis (4-4, 2-3).