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MACOMB – Following two consecutive home games, the Western Illinois University football team embarks on a southern journey this weekend, set to challenge Lindenwood in their Homecoming match at Hunter Stadium in St. Charles, Missouri. With kickoff slated for 2 p.m. on Saturday, fans can expect an exhilarating contest as the Leathernecks aim to build momentum after a decisive win last week.
WHO | Western Illinois (3-4, 2-1) at Lindenwood (3-5, 2-2)
WHEN | Saturday, October 26, 2 p.m.
WHERE | St. Charles, Missouri, Hunter Stadium
FOLLOW ALONG | Watch;Listen;Live Stats
SOCIAL MEDIA | X; Facebook; Instagram
PREVIOUSLY | In a standout performance that showcased both offensive prowess and defensive tenacity, the Western Illinois University football team triumphed over Tennessee Tech, securing a commanding 37-21 victory on their home turf in Macomb.
The offense was unstoppable, amassing an impressive total of 446 yards, while the defense demonstrated their skill by forcing three turnovers, recording five sacks, and effectively stifling the Golden Eagles’ offensive efforts throughout the game. This triumph elevated the Leathernecks to a 3-4 overall record and pushed them to 2-1 within the competitive Big South-Ohio Valley Conference Football Association.
The Lindenwood football team (3-5, 2-2 BS/OVC) faced a tough loss against Gardner-Webb (2-5, 1-2 BS/OVC), falling just short with a final score of 42-35 in Boiling Springs, N.C. Star wide receiver Jeff Caldwell excelled with six receptions for a stunning 174 yards and one touchdown, while RB Steve Hall contributed 78 rushing yards, including a touchdown. Defensively, Vincent King made his mark with 15 tackles, alongside three tackles for loss and one quarterback hurry.
NEXT | After this weekend’s matchup, Western Illinois continues its road journey, taking on in-state rival Eastern Illinois, while Lindenwood looks to rebound at Tennessee Tech.
ABOUT THE LEATHERNECKS | The offensive unit for Western Illinois is currently averaging 26.57 points per game, while they are allowing an average of 42.86 points to their opponents. The team has been effective in the rushing department, gaining an average of 131.9 yards per game while passing for 223.29 yards. However, their defense is facing challenges, allowing 246.6 yards on the ground and 253.57 through the air. Quarterback Nathan Lamb has been an integral part of the offense, completing 120 of 187 passes for a total of 1,390 yards, while achieving seven touchdowns and four interceptions.
ABOUT THE LIONS | Lindenwood’s offensive statistics reveal an average of 25.75 points per game against an average of 26.88 points allowed. The Lions have demonstrated capability in rushing, with 169.9 yards per game, and in passing, amassing 194 yards on average. Key player Nate Glantz has thrown for 1,437 yards this season, connecting for 11 touchdowns against seven interceptions, whereas Vincent King leads the team with 77 tackles.
HISTORY | The two teams have faced off only once prior, where Lindenwood emerged victorious over WIU with a nail-biting 43-40 scoreline last year, overcoming a 17-point halftime deficit.
NOTES | The defense’s five sacks last week marked the highest tally since facing Southern Illinois in 2021, and Matthew Henry’s receiving yards made headlines for being the highest since 2021. Additionally, Nathan Lamb’s recent accolades include being named the Big South-OVC Offensive Player of the Week, a noteworthy achievement that reflects his pivotal role in the team’s success.
Western Illinois will also look to build on its momentum as it prepares to face Eastern Illinois on November 2, before returning home on November 9 for a matchup against Tennessee State.
AROUND THE BIG SOUTH-OHIO VALLEY | Recently, SEMO has maintained an unbeaten record in the conference after defeating Charleston Southern, while Gardner-Webb found success in their match against Lindenwood. The Leathernecks continue to aim for improvement within the league standings this weekend.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Nathan Lamb, QB • 6-3, 230, Sr. • Tulare, Calif. • Western Illinois
In last week’s decisive victory against Tennessee Tech, Lamb showcased his immense talent by accumulating 350 total offensive yards and scoring three touchdowns. His exemplary performance included completing 15 of 24 passes and demonstrating skill on the ground with 90 rushing yards.
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Vincent King, LB • 6-0, 231, Sr. • Denver, Colo. • Lindenwood
King’s tenacious defense was on full display, earning him the accolade of Defensive Player of the Week with 15 tackles and multiple key defensive plays, contributing to his team’s efforts against Gardner-Webb.
SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK
CJ Evans, KR/RB • 5-8, 180, R-Sr. • Mobile, Ala. • Tennessee State
Evans electrified the game with a remarkable 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, demonstrating his remarkable athleticism and securing victory in a crucial moment.
CO-FRESHMAN OF THE WEEK
Steve Hall, RB • 5-9, 195, R-Fr. • St. Louis, Mo. • Lindenwood
Hall displayed his potential during the game against Gardner-Webb, contributing significantly with 78 rushing yards and impressively finding the end zone.
CO-FRESHMAN OF THE WEEK
Sanders Ellis • 6-2, 225, Fr. • Nashville, Tenn. • Tennessee State
In his team’s win over Howard, Ellis’s defensive contributions included a notable half sack and vital tackles, signaling his exceptional freshman season.
PRESEASON NOTES | The Leathernecks highlighted several key players during the preseason, with standout recognition for Nathan Lamb, Torrance Farmer Jr., and others who were named Players to Watch in the Big South-OVC Conference.
FOLLOW THE LEATHERNECKS
For all the latest information on Leatherneck Football, please visit GoLeathernecks.com. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Leathernecks on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
Interview with Coach Jared Elliott of Western Illinois University Football
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Coach Elliott! The Leathernecks are heading to Lindenwood for their Homecoming match this Saturday. How is the team feeling after last week’s significant win against Tennessee Tech?
Coach Elliott: Thank you for having me! The team is feeling energized and confident after that win. It was a great performance offensively and defensively, and the players are eager to carry that momentum into our game against Lindenwood.
Interviewer: Last week, your offense posted impressive numbers, accumulating 446 total yards. What do you attribute that success to?
Coach Elliott: A lot of it comes down to execution and the hard work our players have put in all season. Nathan Lamb had an outstanding game, and our offensive line really stepped up. They allowed him the time he needed to make plays, and our receivers were able to capitalize on those opportunities.
Interviewer: Defensively, you also showed strength by forcing three turnovers and recording five sacks. How crucial is the defense going to be against a Lindenwood team that has shown offensive capabilities?
Coach Elliott: Defense will be key for us every game, especially against a potent offense like Lindenwood’s. They have talented players like Nate Glantz and Jeff Caldwell who can put up significant yardage. We need to be aggressive and disciplined to control their offensive plays.
Interviewer: In your previous matchup against Lindenwood, you lost a close game after leading at halftime. What lessons did the team learn from that experience?
Coach Elliott: That game taught us the importance of staying focused for all four quarters. We had a great first half but didn’t finish strong. We’ve emphasized consistency and maintaining our intensity throughout the game in practice this week.
Interviewer: It sounds like you’re emphasizing a balanced approach. As you prepare for the game, what will be the key focus areas during practice leading up to Saturday?
Coach Elliott: We’re focusing on several key areas: solidifying our run defense, maintaining offensive rhythm, and reducing penalties. We also want to ensure our special teams execute well. Each of these aspects can make a big difference in a close game like this.
Interviewer: Lastly, any message for Leatherneck fans traveling to St. Charles or tuning in from home?
Coach Elliott: Absolutely! We appreciate the support of our fans, whether they’re in the stands or cheering from afar. Your energy motivates the team, and we are ready to put on a great show. We’re looking for a strong turnout to help us build on our recent success!
Interviewer: Thank you, Coach Elliott! Best of luck this weekend against Lindenwood!
Coach Elliott: Thank you! We’re excited for the challenge. Go Leathernecks!
Coach Elliott: Thank you for having me! The team is feeling energized and confident after that win. It was a great performance offensively and defensively, and the players are eager to carry that momentum into our game against Lindenwood.
Interviewer: Last week, your offense posted impressive numbers, accumulating 446 total yards. What do you attribute that success to?
Coach Elliott: A lot of it comes down to execution and the hard work our players have put in all season. Nathan Lamb had an outstanding game, and our offensive line really stepped up. They allowed him the time he needed to make plays, and our receivers were able to capitalize on those opportunities.
Interviewer: Defensively, you also showed strength by forcing three turnovers and recording five sacks. How crucial will the defense be against a Lindenwood team that has shown offensive capabilities?
Coach Elliott: Defense will be key for us every game, especially against a potent offense like Lindenwood’s. They have talented players like Nate Glantz and Jeff Caldwell who can put up significant yardage. We need to be aggressive and disciplined to control their offensive plays.
Interviewer: In your previous matchup against Lindenwood, you lost a close game after leading at halftime. What lessons did the team learn from that experience?
Coach Elliott: That game taught us the importance of maintaining focus and composure throughout all four quarters. We can’t take our foot off the gas, no matter the score. We need to play with intensity until the final whistle to secure a win this time around.
Interviewer: You have a busy schedule ahead of you after this matchup. How important is it to gain momentum this weekend as you look towards your next games?
Coach Elliott: It’s incredibly important. Success in this game will not only boost our confidence but also set a positive tone for our upcoming match against Eastern Illinois. Each week is crucial in shaping our season, and we want to keep building on our successes.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for your insights, Coach Elliott. Best of luck against Lindenwood!
Coach Elliott: Thank you! We appreciate the support and hope to make our fans proud this weekend.
