West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois University Leathernecks earned a narrow 17-16 victory over Tennessee State on Saturday at Nissan Stadium. This marks the team's second win of the season and its first in conference play.

The Leathernecks' defense played a key role early in the game. Malini Ti'a intercepted a pass late in the first quarter and returned it 20 yards for a touchdown, giving Western Illinois a 7-3 lead. Tennessee State briefly took back the lead in the second quarter, but Cason Carswell responded by connecting with Demari Davis for a 40-yard touchdown pass, putting the Leathernecks ahead again at 14-10.

Tennessee State managed to add two field goals, taking a 16-14 advantage into the third quarter. However, Antonio Chadha made a 51-yard field goal late in that period, which proved to be the deciding score.

Western Illinois delivered one of its strongest defensive performances this season, recording five sacks and two interceptions while limiting Tennessee State to just 16 points. Kevin Washington Jr. led with eight tackles, three tackles for loss, and two sacks. Christian Pierce also had eight tackles along with four tackles for loss. Don Paul Keith added an interception in the fourth quarter to help secure the win.

Jalen Riven, Joe Edwards, and Buju Aumua-Tuisavura each contributed a sack as Western Illinois finished with 14 tackles for loss overall.

On offense, Carswell passed for 133 yards and one touchdown, distributing completions among six different receivers. Markell Holman led the running game with 50 yards on 13 carries.

Special teams also played a part; Luke Droegemueller punted eight times for an average of 43.5 yards per punt and pinned four inside Tennessee State's 20-yard line.

With this result, Western Illinois moves to a record of 2-7 overall and 1-4 in OVC - Big South play. The team will have a bye next week before returning home to face Lindenwood.

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