West Central Reporter

The 2025 Leatherneck Football schedule has been released, detailing the games for Western Illinois University's team as part of the OVC-Big South Football Association. This marks the third year of the association, featuring nine league teams with each playing an eight-game conference schedule. The league matches will commence on September 13 and primarily occur between Weeks 5 and 13.

Western Illinois University will begin its season away against the University of Illinois on August 30, followed by a game against Northwestern in week two. The home opener at Hanson Field is scheduled for September 13 against Valparaiso. On September 20, they will travel to face Eastern Washington before starting their conference play at home against Eastern Illinois University on September 27.

"Our 2025 schedule is a challenging one featuring two Big Ten teams and a traditional power from the Big Sky," said Head Coach Joe Davis. "Our football program is excited for the opportunity to compete as we begin the off-season portion of our calendar."

The full schedule includes games against Tennessee Tech, UT Martin, Charleston Southern, Tennessee State, Lindenwood, Southeast Missouri, and Gardner-Webb.

The Ohio Valley Conference-Big South Association was established in February 2022 and began competition in the NCAA Division I football season in 2023. The initial term is set for four years with potential extensions through 2030 and beyond. This agreement aims to provide stability and competitive scheduling while ensuring access to NCAA Division I Football Championship Playoffs bids.

Schools participating in this association include Charleston Southern University, Eastern Illinois University, Gardner-Webb University, Lindenwood University, Southeast Missouri State University, Tennessee State University, Tennessee Technological University, the University of Tennessee at Martin, and Western Illinois University.

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