Who | Western Illinois (3-7, 2-4) vs. SEMO (3-7, 2-4)
When | Saturday, November 15, 1:00 P.M.
Where | Hanson Field, Macomb, IL  

Western Illinois Hosts SEMO
Western Illinois football enters this week on a roll, winning back-to-back games against Tennessee State and Lindenwood to build real momentum heading into their matchup with Southeast Missouri State.

The Leathernecks are looking to make it three straight victories for the first time since 2018.

Last Game – Lindenwood Recap
The Leathernecks showed grit and composure, rallying from a 14-point deficit to secure back-to-back victories for the first time this season. Freshman quarterback Cason Carswell led the way through the air, throwing for 175 yards and two touchdowns, while Markell Holman powered the ground attack with a dominant 172-yard performance on 25 carries, including a key fourth-quarter touchdown.

Lindenwood came out firing early, taking a 14–0 lead after two first-quarter touchdowns from quarterback Nate Glantz. The Leathernecks responded in the second quarter when Carswell connected with tight end Brandon Lanier on a 17-yard touchdown pass to make it 14–7 at halftime.

After Lindenwood stretched the lead to 21–7 in the third, Western Illinois began its comeback. Antonio Chadha drilled a 41-yard field goal late in the third quarter to bring the Leathernecks within striking distance making the game 10-21. In the 4th, Holman broke free for a 27-yard touchdown run to trim the deficit to 21–16.

With just over a minute remaining, Western Illinois completed the rally when Carswell found Alex Williams for an eight-yard touchdown pass. Holman ran in the two-point conversion to give WIU its first and final lead of the game, 24–21.

Players of the Week Honors
Western Illinois junior running back Markell Holman was named the OVC-Big South Player of the Week following his standout effort in the Leathernecks' 24-21 victory over Lindenwood on Saturday.

Holman turned in a season-high performance, rushing for 172 yards on 25 carries and scoring a touchdown. He consistently powered the Western Illinois offense throughout the game, helping the Leathernecks move the ball effectively against the Lions' defense.

Late in the fourth quarter, Holman added a crucial two-point conversion to give Western Illinois a three-point lead—a margin the Leathernecks would hold onto for the win.

Western Illinois defensive back Don Paul Keith was named the OVC-Big South Co-Freshman of the Week following his standout performance in the Leathernecks 24-21 comeback win over Lindenwood on Saturday.

Keith made an impact in all phases of the game, finishing with three tackles, two pass breakups, and one of the game's defining moments on special teams. Late in the second half, the freshman recovered a muffed punt deep in Lindenwood territory, setting up a crucial Western Illinois scoring drive that fueled the comeback victory.

The play proved to be a turning point as the Leathernecks rallied from behind to earn their second straight conference win.

Scouting SEMO
Southeast Missouri State enters this week's matchup with Western Illinois sitting at 3–7 overall and 2–4 in conference play, still searching for its first road win of the season. Despite the record, the Redhawks have shown flashes of offensive firepower, particularly through the air. Quarterback Jax Leatherwood has thrown for nearly 2,000 yards with 12 touchdowns and just two interceptions, leading an offense that averages close to 280 passing yards per game. SEMO's aerial attack has been the team's strength all season, capable of producing explosive plays and sustaining long drives when Leatherwood finds a rhythm with his receivers.

Defensively, the Redhawks have struggled to find consistency, allowing over 250 passing yards per game and giving up big plays through the air and on the ground. Their opponents have been able to establish the run, something Western Illinois will look to capitalize on. Missed opportunities have also hurt SEMO, as they've struggled to finish drives. Playing away from home has been another issue, as the Redhawks are winless on the road this season.

Keys to the Game

• Control the Ground Game: Establishing the run early will be crucial. Western Illinois has found success leaning on Markell Holman and the offensive line, and controlling time of possession can keep SEMO's passing attack off the field.

• Disrupt SEMO's Passing Rhythm: Quarterback Jax Leatherwood is efficient when given time, so generating pressure and forcing quick throws will be key. Defensive takeaways could swing momentum in WIU's favor.

• Finish Drives and Limit Mistakes: Both of WIU's recent wins came down to late-game execution. Sustaining drives, converting in the red zone, and protecting the football will be vital to securing a third straight victory.

What's at Stake
After back-to-back victories over Tennessee State and Lindenwood, the Leathernecks have built momentum and confidence heading into the matchup with SEMO. A win would cap a strong late-season surge, highlight the team's growth, and give Western Illinois a big boost heading into the offseason.

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