The Gateway Conference had a soft opening a week ago but is full-on this weekend, and the question remains whether anyone can catch St. Louis University.

Southern Illinois reportedly has depth issues, so while SIU defeated UMKC 43-29 in August, observers aren’t sure if that strength will last. The loss was certainly a blow to UMKC. Meanwhile, SLU beat Washington University 44-12 last week (taking the actual weekend for the entire squad to see the USA play Australia in Chicago), and look to build on that this weekend.

But perhaps the big game comes in a week, when SLU faces Principia. Both teams are skilled, speedy, and not especially big up front. And both could be thinking conference championship.

For St. Louis, their issues revolve around six starters all being overseas pursuing a semester abroad. Still their opening win over Washington, and a win the next day over Loyola (Chicago) in a non-conference game, with the B-side winning twice also, gives them some confidence. 

“I think it was a really good start for the guys,” said SLU Coach Justin Whitton. “We got some wins and we were able to see the Eagles play. It’s always good to see that high level of play. We were able to beat Washington with eight rookies starting. We got a really strong freshman class and we’re starting to see students want to come here for the education and also because of the rugby program.”