MACOMB, IL – Western Illinois football opened OVC–Big South conference play on Saturday at Hanson Field, falling 31–23 to Eastern Illinois.

The Panthers (2–2, 1–0 OVC–Big South) leaned on their rushing attack, totaling 239 yards and four touchdowns. Freshman Jacarre Fleming rushed for 111 yards and two scores, including runs of 55 and 30 yards, while Charles Kellom added a 25-yard touchdown. Quarterback Connor Wolf also scored on a 1-yard keeper.

Western Illinois (1–4, 0–1 OVC–Big South) ran 80 plays and held the ball for over 35 minutes but couldn't overcome Eastern's explosive runs. Freshman quarterback Cason Carswell completed 16 of 22 passes for 118 yards and two touchdowns to senior tight end Alex Williams, who caught three passes for 20 yards. Senior tight end Tristin Duncan led all receivers with 10 catches for 78 yards, and running back Markell Holman rushed for 91 yards on 23 carries.

Kicker Antonio Chadha was perfect, hitting field goals from 34, 49, and 22 yards. Defensively, Malini Ti'a snagged an interception while Christian Pierce notched a sack.

The Leathernecks closed late with a 16-play, 75-yard drive capped by Williams' second touchdown with 22 seconds left, but Eastern Illinois had already built enough cushion to secure the win.

Western Illinois continues OVC–Big South play next week against Tennessee Tech. 

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