Eastern's Efton Chism III celebrates scoring a touchdown in the second quarter on a fake field goal during the Weber State match-up at the homecoming game last year.
CHENEY - Tonight will mark the beginning of the 2024 season for Eastern Washington football, as they face off against Monmouth under the lights at Roos Field. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.
Returning Stars
Eastern returns 16 starters from the 2023 season, evenly split between offense and defense. Despite losing six starters, the Eagles bring back key players like Efton Chism III, Michael Wortham, and Visperas, who earned All-Big Sky honors in 2023. They are joined by Wyatt Hansen, an honorable mention in 2022. However, the team will miss the presence of 2023 first-team All-Conference defensive back Marlon Jones Jr., second-team tight end Blake Gobel, and 2022 second-team punter Nick Kokich.
Last season, the Eagles offense was a standout in the Big Sky, ranking third in passing yards (263.4 per game) and fourth in total offense (417.6 yards per game), as well as scoring (32.3 points per game). On defense, the Eags look to improve under the leadership of new defensive coordinator Eric Sanders, who brings a mix of veteran experience and young talent.
Looking Back
they finished the 2023 season with a 4-7 record, including a 3-5 mark in Big Sky play, tying for ninth in the conference standings. The Eagles had a solid 3-2 record at Roos Field but struggled on the road, going 1-4 and losing their only neutral-site game. In their season finale, the Eagles narrowly lost to Northern Arizona, 49-42, after a second-half comeback fell short.
O-Line Experience
The Eagles' offensive line is a strength this season, with four of five starters returning, including seniors Luke Dahlgren, Wyatt Hansen, Brenden Rivera, and Jack Seelye, who have combined for 96 starts. Redshirt sophomore Dylan Conner and Michigan transfer Noah Stewart will fill the fifth spot.
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