West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University football team will commence its 2024 season on Saturday afternoon with an away game against Northern Illinois in DeKalb, Illinois. The match is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. and will be broadcast on ESPN+.

The season opener also marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Leathernecks under the leadership of Joe Davis, who takes over as head coach after serving as offensive coordinator at Eastern Illinois. Davis is not alone in his debut; several newcomers will join him both on the field and within the coaching staff.

Western Illinois (0-0) aims to end a 24-game losing streak, with their last victory recorded on October 30, 2021, against Illinois State. The team's last road win was on September 25, 2021, at Youngstown State. This season also marks Western Illinois' debut in the Big South-Ohio Valley Conference Football Association, where they are projected to finish ninth. Key returning players include Bradyn Smith, Juan DelaCruz, Ryan Crandall, and KJ Coleman.

Northern Illinois concluded last year with a 7-6 overall record and a three-game winning streak, including a narrow victory over Arkansas State in the Camellia Bowl. The Huskies have won their past three season openers and bring back three of their five All-MAC selections from last season: first-team running back Antario Brown, second-team cornerback Javaughn Byrd, and third-team wide receiver Trayvon Rudolph.

For Western Illinois, several players received preseason accolades from Phil Steele/Draftscout.com. Notable mentions include Nathan Lamb (quarterback), Torrance Farmer Jr. (running back), Demari Davis (wide receiver), Brandon Lanier (tight end), Isaiah Foote (offensive line), Tre Henry (defensive line), Juan DelaCruz (linebacker), Willie Jones (defensive back), Christiaan Masucci (placekicker), and Jared Campbell (punter).

Historically, Northern Illinois leads the series against Western Illinois with a record of 21-18-1; however, Western has won four of the last five meetings. The most recent encounter ended in a 28-23 victory for Western Illinois on September 24, 2016.

The Leathernecks hold an all-time record of 65-51-4 in season openers since their program began in 1903. Their most recent opening win was on August 31, 2017.

Following this game, Western Illinois will continue its road stint next week by facing Indiana under Friday Night Lights at Bloomington.

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