Eastern Illinois Panthers

Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach:  Adam Cushing

Overall Record:  1-5

Conference Record:  1-5

Biggest Win:  EIU got solid contributions and key plays in all three phases of the game as the Panthers toppled Tennessee Tech 28-20 at O’Brien Field. Eastern intercepted three passes, scored on a blocked punt and produced a balanced offense.

Most Frustrating Loss: After taking a two-point lead on a Stone Galloway field goal with 41 seconds left, EIU lost 21-20 to Tennessee State on a last-second 35-yard field goal.

All-OVC: EIU had three honored as all-Ohio Valley Conference players. Linebacker Jason Johnson was selected for the first team. Defensive back Mark Williams and kick returner Matt Judd were picked for the second team.

No season finale: The Panthers did not play their season finale against Austin Peay. Under the OVC’s COVID-19 protocols, APSU did not have the requisite number of student-athletes to compete, forcing the cancellation.

Fourth down frenzy: The Panthers went on fourth down 31 times in their six games. EIU converted 10 times (32 percent).

Fall kickoff: Eastern opens its fall season Saturday, August 28 at Indiana State. The Ohio Valley will be down to seven teams in the fall after Eastern Kentucky and Jacksonville State announced they were leaving the conference.

Next Up:  Barry Bottino explores Five Burning Questions that face EIU football for fall 2021.