West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University football players Aidan Harrison and Antonio Chadha have been recognized as Big South-Ohio Valley Conference Players of the Week following their team's recent success. The honors come after Western Illinois secured its second consecutive win of the season, marking a strong debut in the conference.

Linebacker Aidan Harrison was named Defensive Player of the Week, while kicker Antonio Chadha earned Co-Special Teams Player of the Week. This marks the first time either player has received such recognition. Notably, Harrison is the first defensive player from Western Illinois to receive this honor since Darius Joiner in September 2021. Similarly, Chadha is the first special teams player to be recognized since Tony Tate in April 2020.

Harrison, hailing from New Lothrop, Michigan, recorded six tackles and an interception return for a 38-yard touchdown during his first start. Chadha, from Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, achieved a perfect four-for-four on extra points and hit a 48-yard field goal. He also managed three touchbacks on six kickoffs with an average kickoff distance of 62 yards.

This dual recognition marks the first time two Leathernecks have received Player of the Week honors simultaneously since Tate and Michael Lawson were honored in April 2020.

Earlier this season, Nathan Lamb was named Offensive Player of the Week, joining Harrison and Chadha as Western Illinois players acknowledged by the league.

The team will host UT Martin for their Homecoming game at 3 p.m. this week.

For more information on Leatherneck Football or updates on their activities, fans are encouraged to visit GoLeathernecks.com or follow them on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.