East Michigan News

Eastern Michigan University's football team concluded its 2024 season with a loss to Western Michigan University, ending the game 26-18 in a Mid-American Conference matchup held in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The Eagles, who finished the season with a record of 5-7 overall and 2-6 in conference play, were led by Delbert Mimms III. Mimms rushed for 127 yards and scored two touchdowns, marking his second game of the season surpassing 100 rushing yards.

The game's scoring began in the second quarter after a scoreless first period when Western Michigan blocked an Eastern Michigan punt for a safety. The Broncos then added two touchdowns before halftime, establishing a lead of 16-0. In the third quarter, Eastern's offense found momentum as Mimms scored from ten yards out and Cole Snyder connected with Max Reese for a two-point conversion. Despite another touchdown from Western Michigan, Mimms scored again with a one-yard run, bringing the score to 23-15 at the end of the third quarter. Both teams exchanged field goals in the fourth quarter to conclude scoring.

Mimms' performance was notable as he achieved multiple rushing touchdowns for the second time this season and third time in his career. He ended the game with nine rushing scores for the season—a personal best—surpassing his previous record during his tenure at NC State.

Defensively, James Djonkam made significant contributions with 17 tackles, including eight solo stops and three tackles for loss (TFLs), tying him for most TFLs in a single game this season alongside Peyton Price's performance against Central Michigan on October 19.

Additionally, Nick Devereaux recorded his first offensive statistics as an Eagle with a seven-yard reception that helped sustain Eastern's initial scoring drive of the game.

The Eagles' defeat means they will not share in this year's Michigan MAC Trophy honors which go to Western Michigan instead. Historically, Eastern holds an all-time record of 22-36-2 against Western Michigan and is now 9-22-1 when playing away games in Kalamazoo.

With their season concluded at five wins and seven losses overall (2-6 MAC), fans can look forward to updates on EMUEagles.com regarding upcoming events like National Signing Day on December 4th.