One of the Huskies’ tests this Saturday will be to contain SIU’s John Randle, the Saluki’s featured running back.

The 5-foot-11, 195 lb. Randle rushed for a career high 132 yards and two touchdowns on 18 carries last week in a win over Quincy University. In 2006 Randle was SIU’s second leading rusher with 489 yards and four touchdowns on 96 carries.

Last season, the transfer from Kansas served as a backup to Arkee Whitlock who now plays for the Minnesota Vikings.

“He’s a good football player. He’s physical, sees the holes well and is an intelligent runner,” said head football coach Joe Novak. “If we don’t play better run defense, it’s going to be a long day for us.”

In his first start for SIU against Indiana last season, Randle rushed for 37 yards on seven carries. Later in the season he broke loose against Southern Utah for 130 yards rushing.

In 2004 while at Kansas, Randle led the team in rushing and touchdowns, racking up 540 yards and scoring nine times. He also caught 35 passes for 274 yards for the Big 12 team.