Led by fourth-year head coach Brock Spack, the Redbirds compiled an overall record of 9–4 with a mark of 5–3 in conference play, placing in a three-way tie for third in the MVFC.

Illinois State received an at-large bid to the NCAA Division I Football Championship playoffs.

After a first-round bye, the Redbirds defeated Appalachian State in the second round before falling to Eastern Washington in the quarterfinals.

The team played home games at Hancock Stadium in Normal, Illinois.

Illinois State averaged 6,511 fans per home game in 2012 while the East Side of Hancock Stadium was being renovated.