West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University’s football team lost its conference opener against Eastern Illinois University, with a final score of 31–23 at Hanson Field on Saturday.

Eastern Illinois, now holding a 2–2 overall record and 1–0 in OVC–Big South play, relied heavily on their running game. The Panthers accumulated 239 rushing yards and scored four touchdowns on the ground. Freshman Jacarre Fleming contributed significantly by rushing for 111 yards and two touchdowns, including runs of 55 and 30 yards. Charles Kellom added another touchdown with a 25-yard run, while quarterback Connor Wolf scored on a one-yard keeper.

The Leathernecks, now at 1–4 overall and 0–1 in conference play, executed 80 plays and maintained possession for over 35 minutes but were unable to counter Eastern Illinois’ big running plays. Freshman quarterback Cason Carswell completed 16 of his 22 pass attempts for a total of 118 yards. He connected twice with senior tight end Alex Williams for touchdowns; Williams caught three passes for a total of 20 yards. Senior tight end Tristin Duncan led all receivers with ten catches totaling 78 yards. Running back Markell Holman carried the ball for a total of 91 yards on 23 attempts.

Kicker Antonio Chadha converted all his field goal attempts from distances of 34, 49, and 22 yards. On defense, Malini Ti'a recorded an interception and Christian Pierce had one sack.

Despite mounting a late comeback attempt that included a lengthy drive capped by Williams’ second touchdown reception with only twenty-two seconds remaining, Western Illinois could not overcome the deficit.

The Leathernecks will continue their OVC–Big South schedule next week when they face Tennessee Tech.

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