MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois returns to action looking to carry its momentum into its next matchup against Eastern Illinois after earning a dramatic 42-35 comeback victory over Charleston Southern last Saturday.
The Leathernecks delivered a thrilling finish against the Buccaneers, scoring with just 15 seconds remaining to secure the seven-point road victory. Western Illinois overcame four turnovers and a fourth-quarter comeback by Charleston Southern before putting together a 99-yard game-winning drive.
Kennedy McGill led the way for the Leathernecks, putting together a huge offensive performance. McGill accounted for multiple touchdowns, including an 84-yard rushing score and a 50-yard touchdown run. He also connected with Israel Hiraldo for a 44-yard touchdown reception.
Ihson E. Jackson-Anderson provided the game-winning score, breaking free for a 14-yard touchdown run with 15 seconds remaining to give Western Illinois the victory.
The Leathernecks will now turn their attention to an Eastern Illinois team coming off an impressive 45-16 road win over UT Martin.
SCOUTING EASTERN ILLINOIS
The Panthers enter the matchup with a 3-6 overall record and a 2-2 mark in Ohio Valley Conference play after picking up their first victory at UT Martin since 2015.
Eastern Illinois put together a strong offensive performance, totaling 552 yards, including 283 rushing yards. Quarterback Cole LaCrue led the way, throwing for 269 yards and four touchdowns while adding 112 rushing yards and another score.
LaCrue connected with four different receivers for touchdowns, including Devin Whitlock, Jeremy Reeves, and Eli Evans. Jacarre Fleming-Page also made a major impact, finishing with 98 rushing yards and 75 receiving yards.
Defensively, the Panthers continued to create turnovers, recording two interceptions against UT Martin. Jerry Addo-Boateng and Makhi Wilson each came away with an interception, extending Eastern Illinois' streak to 12 consecutive games with at least one takeaway.
LOOKING AHEAD
Western Illinois will look to build on its latest victory and carry that momentum into another important conference matchup. The Leathernecks will need to slow down a productive Eastern Illinois offense while continuing to take advantage of their own offensive opportunities.
The matchup provides Western Illinois with another opportunity to build on its progress as the 2026 season continues.
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