Eastern Illinois coach Bob Spoo has at least two goals for his Division I-AA Ohio Valley Conference Panthers going into Saturday’s game against Gateway Conference member Illinois State at Normal: Maintain the passing efficiency and rushing yardage Andrew Harris and Vincent Webb have been providing, and hang onto the football.
Quarterback Harris completed 21 of 34 passes for 197 yards, and tailback Webb rushed for 104 yards on 26 carries last week, but the Panthers lost their opener 33-30 in overtime to Indiana State, partly because of four turnovers, including two late-game interceptions.
Eastern led 24-10 one minute into the fourth quarter. Indiana State, aided by interceptions, outscored the Panthers 23-10 from that point. . . .
EIU and ISU have competed 90 times in a rivalry that stretches back to 1901. Illinois State leads in the series 45-36-9.
– Next: Saturday at Illinois State, 6:30 p.m.