Macomb, Ill- Western Illinois secured a commanding 45-28 victory over Gardner-Webb at Hanson Field on Saturday afternoon with big performances form Matthew Henry and Peyton Bradford. The win was fueled by a dominant offensive showing and opportunistic defense as WIU amassed 511 total yards, spearheaded by a potent passing attack that contributed 430 yards and three touchdowns.
Quarterback Nathan Lamb played a pivotal role, passing for 352 yards and two touchdowns while also scoring on a 1-yard rushing touchdown. Matthew Henry caught six passes for 210 yards and two touchdowns, including a 46-yard score. Henry is now third all time in a single season for receiving yards finishing the season with 1,179 yards. Eli Aragon added eight receptions for 113 yards and a touchdown, emphasizing the depth of Western Illinois' air assault. On the ground, Torrance Farmer Jr. chipped in with 58 rushing yards and two touchdowns, ensuring the Leathernecks maintained offensive balance.
The defense stepped up as well, recording three sacks and forcing three turnovers. Linebacker Jonathan Williams led the charge with 12 tackles, including four for loss, while Peyton Bradford added three sacks and a forced fumble.
Western Illinois scored 17 unanswered points to secure the win in the fourth quarter with touchdowns by Eli Aragon and Torrance Farmer Jr. The victory marked a strong finish to Western Illinois' season who finished the year 4-8 and was highlighted by resilience and efficiency in all three phases of the game.
FOLLLOW THE LEATHERNECKSÂ
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