Start of Something Big: Millikin Head Football Coach Billy Riebock talks about the Big Blue’s win over Luther College on Saturday

DECATUR, Ill. – Heading into his first collegiate football game as head coach, Head Coach Billy Riebock had a whirlwind of feelings about how his team was going to perform at . 

“I was anxious, a little nervous, and excited. Everything all at once. I just wanted to see where we were at as a program, and finally going against somebody else. I was feeling cautiously optimistic and really excited. By the end, you could say I was really impressed,” Riebock said. “We had a morning walkthrough Friday at 7:00 a.m. and the whole team was ready by 6:45 a.m. We weren't chasing down people or anything like that, and that's how they've been this whole camp. Although we passed our test, there's still a lot of work to be done and we're gonna get back after it, but I couldn't be happier and more excited for everyone associated with the organization.” 

This new era of Big Blue Football has begun with standout performances on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball as , snapping a 20-game losing streak.  

The Big Blue put up 400 yards of offense, including standout performances by quarterback Sylas Gomez and running back Re’John Zeno. 

“I thought (Offensive Coach Gunnard Twyner) and the staff were unbelievable in how they prepared us. I thought he did a great job with the game plan in terms of it being effective yet simple,” Riebock said. “I thought we played clean for the most part, and that allowed us, especially at the quarterback position, to settle in and make some plays and execute.” 

Junior transfer quarterback Sylas Gomez was 16-for-24 for 184 yards and two touchdowns and added 52 yards rushing in his Big Blue football debut.  

“Sylas did what a quarterback's supposed to do, don’t lose the ball and get us in the end zone. There were a couple of throws I know he'd like back, but I think part of that was just maybe some first-game jitters,” Riebock said. “He is his own worst critic, but I couldn't be more excited for where he's at and where he's going.” 

First-year running back Re’John Zeno also made a big impression in his first game with the Big Blue. He rushed for 88 yards and three touchdowns and caught a fourth score on a pass from Gomez.  

“Re’John has all the ability in the world and we are really fortunate that he decided to join us,” Riebock said. “He's one of those guys that makes coaching a little easier. In some of those critical moments, we need to get the ball to your best players. He certainly was a star amongst stars on Saturday. As good as he is on that field, he's even a better person.” 

Last season’s leading tackler, Alex Araiza, led the team with nine tackles against the Norse, including two tackles for a loss and a quarterback sack. Zac Girard added an interception as Luther was held to three points.  

“(Defensive Coach) Jermaine Burket had those guys ready. Our main thing going into this game was to limit missed tackles in the big places. Luther only had two big plays, which was awesome,” Riebock said. “If we can keep that going throughout the year we'll be in a lot of games. I think they played great situational football and they flew around to the ball.” 

Millikin President Dean Pribbenow, who earned his bachelor’s degree from Luther, was on hand at Saturday’s game and took part in the pre-game coin toss ceremony. He also made a friendly wager with Luther College President Brad Chamberlain that the president of the losing school would have to wear the winning school’s colors. Following the win, Riebock presented Pribbenow with a game ball.  

“It was awesome having Dean and (his wife Kris Mickelson) out there and our players knew about the bet between the presidents,” Riebock said. “We said from the get go that our president wasn't going to be wearing anybody else's colors. We are happy to get that done, and hopefully we made them, along with the rest of the university, proud.”  

Riebock also shares his appreciation for the student, staff, faculty and alums who made the nearly six-hour drive to Decorah, Iowa and helped cheer on the team's impressive performance in the season opener.  

‘I thought we traveled really well for a six-hour trip. It was awesome. The support, the great messages, and the kind words that we have received have meant a lot to our coaching staff and our players,” he said. “We couldn't do it without them.” 

Millikin will rest a week before meeting their first College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW) opponent at Frank M. Lindsay Field when North Park University travels to Decatur on Saturday, Sept. 6 for a 6:00 p.m. match-up. 

“This week is going to be like a mini camp because we're going to play a lot of football. We're back at it on Monday with meetings and weight practices throughout the week. Our team will also be out doing various community service activities. Our coaches are going to be out in the local high schools recruiting. We are going to keep establishing those relationships and keep trying to make all of these great players from Macon County into Millikin men.”