Racer football opener goes to Eastern Illinois 28-14

Murray State took the early lead over Eastern Illinois, but the Panthers pulled away for a 28-14 win at the Racers' season opener Thursday at Roy Stewart Stadium.

Jaxon Potter caught a 13-yard TD pass from Collin Shannon to open the scoring at the start of the second quarter, but the kick failed. The Panthers forged a 14-6 lead, but Murray State tied the game with a 7-yard pass from Shannon to Trey Firestone as the half ended.

Eastern running back Charles Kellum rambled for 171 yards and three touchdowns as the Panthers' ground game held sway over the Racers' attack from the air. Kellum's day included an 88-yard TD run, and an average of nine yards per carry.

Total yardage for both teams was comparable -- 368 for EIU, 320 for Murray State -- and first downs were almost a dead heat at 20-18 in favor of the Panthers.

The Racers dominated the passing numbers 257 to 101, but Murray could only muster 63 net yards on the ground. 

Racer quarterback Shannon was 26-for-40 with two touchdowns and two interceptions.

Murray State is back in action on Saturday, Sept. 5 at Middle Tennessee State in Murfreesboro. Kickoff is 6 pm.


(Photo Bill Biggs/Eastern Illinois Athletics)