Who | Western Illinois (1-2, 0-0) vs. Eastern Washington (0-3, 0-0)
When | Saturday, September 20 – 6:00 p.m. CT / 4:00 p.m. PT
Where | Roos Field – Cheney, Wash.
 

Home Opener Momentum
Fresh off a 51-30 home-opening win over Valparaiso, Western Illinois will travel west across the Rockies for another nonconference test against the Eastern Washington Eagles (0-3). The Leathernecks will look to carry their balanced offensive performance and stout defensive effort into Saturday's matchup.

Last Week – Valparaiso Recap
The Leathernecks wasted no time seizing control in their first game at Hanson Field this season. After forcing a quick three-and-out on defense, running back Markell Holman powered the opening scoring drive, rushing for 69 of the 84 yards and capping it with a touchdown. Holman finished the afternoon with 139 yards and two scores. 

Quarterback Chris Irvin delivered in his first home start of the season, completing 13-of-19 passes for 250 yards and three touchdowns. He spread the ball to seven different receivers, with Demari Davis leading the way on four catches for 99 yards and a touchdown. Antwon McKay Jr. connected with Brandon Lanier for a 14-yard score. 

Defensively, WIU forced six punts and consistently pressured the backfield with seven tackles for loss. Christian Pierce and Buju Aumua-Tuisavura paced the unit with seven tackles each, while Malini Ti'a and Kevin Washington Jr. added six apiece. Brock Sperling picked up his first sack of the year, Chikala Warden Jr. forced a fumble, and Ethan Ladd made a key special teams play with a blocked punt in the second quarter.

Scouting Eastern Washington
The Eagles enter Saturday still seeking their first win after a difficult nonconference slate. Quarterback Jared Taylor leads the passing attack with 285 yards, while Nate Bell has paced the ground game with 125 rushing yards. Linebacker Drew Carter anchors the defense with 22 tackles, followed closely by Myles Mayovsky with 20. Special teams could also play a factor, as EWU has blocked a kick in each of its first three games this season.

What's at Stake
Western Illinois has the chance to even its record at 2-2, something the program has not achieved since 2018. With Big South–OVC play on the horizon, a second straight win would give the Leathernecks confidence and momentum heading into conference competition under head coach Joe Davis.

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

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