Transfer Portal Pays Off Early for Western Illinois in Season-Opening Win.
From WGEM Sports:
https://www.wgem.com/2026/09/01/transfe ... ening-win/
 
 

Let us know how much to chip in.
 

There were 3 Food Trucks at last week's Tailgate.  They were located in the north end of Q-Lot (Row A).

Illinois State beat Saint Francis (IL) 76-0.  Attendance at Illinois State = 9,072

Roosevelt University beat Chicago State 44-28.  Attendance at Chicago State = 1,000

It all comes down to basic economics.  $15 tickets that go unsold bring in $0.
 

Considering the small attendance for Thursday's game (2,353), it might be time to take a second look at the ticket prices.

The former Athletic Director eliminated the "Senior / Youth" ticket during his tenure. Now everyone pays $15.

The community might be saying that the $15 price is too high.

Very disappointing turn-out for an opening game.  Only 2,359 in attendance.

Thursday games are problematic for those out-of-towners who work on Thursday and / or Friday.

Perhaps there would have been a larger crowd if the game had been played on Saturday.
 

Leathernecks Break Drought: Western Illinois Dominates Season Opener 65-14.
From WGEM Sports:
https://www.wgem.com/2026/08/28/leather ... ner-65-14/
 

Western wins 65-14

#5 Cason Carswell was 5 of 8 for 24 yards.  0 Touchdowns.  1 Interception.

#17 Kennedy McGill was 15 of 17 for 194 yards.  2 Touchdowns.  0 Interceptions.

Western had 539 Total Yards:  218 yards Passing.  321 yards Rushing.

Attendance at Hanson Field = 2,353