West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's football team narrowly lost to UT Martin on Saturday, with the Skyhawks scoring late in the game to secure a 32-31 victory at Hardy M. Graham Stadium.

Freshman quarterback Cason Carswell made his second career start and threw for 327 yards and two touchdowns, completing 21 of 30 passes. Both touchdown passes occurred in the first half, including a 28-yard pass to Demari Davis and an 18-yard pass to Alex Williams.

Junior running back Markell Holman contributed with 59 rushing yards and two touchdowns, one of which was a 16-yard run in the second quarter.

The Leathernecks' offense accumulated a total of 403 yards, averaging nearly eight yards per play. On defense, Christian Pierce and Justin Richardson each recorded nine tackles, while Kevin Washington Jr. added eight tackles and one sack.

Kicker Antonio Chadha made a 24-yard field goal and successfully converted all four extra point attempts. However, his attempt at a potential game-winning 48-yard field goal in the final minute was blocked by UT Martin.

Tristin Duncan caught five passes for 82 yards, while Christian Anaya had five receptions for 70 yards. Demari Davis led the team with 109 receiving yards.

Western Illinois now holds a record of one win and six losses overall (0-3 in OVC-Big South conference play). The team will return home next Saturday to face Charleston Southern at Hanson Field, with kickoff scheduled for 3 p.m.

"Follow the Leathernecks

For all the latest on Leatherneck Football, visit GoLeathernecks.com and follow the team on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook."