West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University football team secured a significant victory against Tennessee Tech on Saturday, winning 37-21 in Macomb. The Leathernecks' offense accumulated 446 total yards, while the defense forced three turnovers and achieved five sacks, limiting the Golden Eagles' offensive efforts. This win improved Western Illinois' record to 3-4 overall and 2-1 in the Big South-Ohio Valley Conference Football Association.

The Leathernecks' defense made an early impact by forcing a fumble on Tennessee Tech's first possession. Brian Bruce recovered the fumble after it was forced by Mayo Bola. Nathan Lamb capitalized on this opportunity with a touchdown pass to Matthew Henry, giving Western Illinois an early lead of 7-0.

"I trust our quarterback," Henry said. "I told him any time he spots me one-on-one, if he likes the matchup, get the ball near me and I'll get it."

KJ Coleman further strengthened Western Illinois' position with an interception returned for 30 yards. "I think it was all 11 guys working as a team today," Coleman stated.

This set up Antonio Chadha for a successful field goal, extending their lead to 10-0. Head coach Joe Davis remarked on the team's performance: "The challenge we relayed to our defense was to make an impact play early."

Despite Tennessee Tech's efforts to respond with touchdowns, Western Illinois maintained their advantage through Lamb's additional touchdown passes and rushing plays by Cameren Smith.

In the second half, Chadha contributed another field goal, bringing the score to 34-14. Although Tennessee Tech managed another touchdown in the final quarter, Jalen Riven's crucial sack effectively ended their comeback attempt.

Chadha sealed the game with his third field goal of the day, followed by Jordan Anderson's interception on Tennessee Tech's last possession.

Western Illinois will face Lindenwood next Saturday and Eastern Illinois in two weeks before returning home on November 9 against Tennessee State.