Illinois State University’s football team is riding a wave of enthusiasm as they advance in the FCS playoffs, facing off against the 12th-ranked Villanova this Saturday. The Bloomington-Normal team has captured the excitement of fans and alumni alike, including former offensive lineman Cameron Lee. Lee’s journey from a walk-on to a scholarship athlete, culminating in a role on the 2015 national runner-up team, has left him with a deep appreciation for the Redbirds’ current success.

Lee, observing from a distance, is thrilled to see this year’s team making significant strides. He remarked, “This team might have started as an underdog, but playing in the Missouri Valley Conference—often compared to the SEC or Big Ten of the FCS level—means they’re a formidable force. They began the season with a top 10 ranking and have undeniably proven themselves by defeating tough competitors. The victory over North Dakota State stands as the most significant win in the school’s history.”

Lee said he’s been keeping up from afar and is excited to see this year’s team flying high.

“The idea was that this is probably like an underdog team, but playing in the Missouri Valley, which is, you know, the SEC or the Big Ten of the FCS level, it’s a really strong team,” he said. “So, you know, they had that top 10 ranking to start the season, but they’re living up to it and beating some really strong opponents, and obviously that the win over North Dakota State was the biggest win in school history.”

Lee said he’s picking ISU to win the title. The final four game is at Villanova, and you can watch it at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN2.