Illinois State football coach Brock Spack says the school's plans to renovate Hancock Stadium are starting to pay off on the recruiting trail.

Spack said Wednesday that the stadium and its shortcomings have been an obstacle in recruiting players. He says the Redbirds have a great campus and other facilities, such as the weight room. Now he says the stadium will be a help rather than a hindrance.

Illinois State plans to start the $20 million renovation in the spring. The renovation will expand seating from 9,500 to about 14,000. The project should be done for the 2013 football season.

The Redbirds' success on the field may be helping, too. ISU is 6-3 and ranked No. 24 in the Football Championship Subdivision.