Opinions: Making the case for Crocs.
Sports: Leathernecks look to take on Montana State in home-opener Saturday.
WesternCourier.com
Friday, September 13, 2019 - Vol. 120 Issue 11
@WesternCourier
Senators aren't appointed, holds up business
JOSH PURNELL/ COURIER STAFF
Speaker of the Senate Markeysha Marshall (left) and President Colton Markey (right) discuss the importance of student voice in SGA and in order to have said voice students and organzations/colleges need to appoint their representatives. By Marc Ramirez news editor
The past two weeks, the Student Government Association has attempted to conduct business; however, they were unable due to the lack of student participation. Senators in SGA are appointed by each of their different academic colleges or within an organization that falls within an office or center. As of Tuesday’s meeting, members from Centennial Honors College, College of Information Sciences, College of Education and Human Services, Graduate Studies, Corbin-Olson, Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council and the United Greek Council have either not been appointed or not shown yet. This leaves students who fall under these Senators with no voice during meetings. Markeysha Marshall, Speaker of the Senate for the 51st legislative session, called the meeting held in the University
Union Capital Room to order. She started with roll call and moved into cabinet reports. Student Government President Colton Markey started with asking the people in attendance to start recruiting for unfilled committees. In addition, he added that Camp Leatherneck is currently searching for two directors. Camp Leatherneck is a free two day leadership retreat for incoming students that focuses on individual leadership development, provides opportunities for students, faculty and staff interactions, emphasizes the importance of understanding diversity and promotes social responsibility by participating in community service. The retreat is organized and facilitated by current student leaders, known as Camp Leatherneck Leaders. If interested, students are encouraged to email Cecilia Langill, Graduate Advisor for Leadership Programs and Volunteer Services at
CM-Langill@wiu.edu. Next to speak was SGA Vice President Daria Levchenko. She spoke about arranging the first Mayor ’s Roundtable with Mayor Mike Inman. She explained they have had roundtables in the past and have toured and learned more about the Macomb Police and Fire Departments and McDonough County Hospital. The first roundtable of this academic school year will be held on Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. “It’s going to be an introductory tour and they will show us around City Hall and we will meet a few different people who work there,” Levchenko said. “This is a good way to just say hi and get to know the community.” Director of Outreach Alexis Williams-White, Director of Student Services Ryan Homer, Attorney General Kyle Ramlow and Student Member to the Board of Trustees Justin Brown all
had no report for the second meeting of the year. Chief of Staff Rachel Greene reported that if anyone in the room or any of their friends were interested in being on committees to reach out to her. As Chief of Staff, it is Greene’s job to help assist the SGA Vice President in coordination of the affairs of the Executive Branch, serve as a non-voting, ex-officio member to the Appointments Committee, advise the SGA President in the appointment process, directly oversee and appoint students to various non-SGA councils and Committees, act as a temporary liaison to non-SGA councils and committees when a vacancy Exists and periodically coordinate reports of non-SGA council/committee liaisons to the senate and conduct a yearly survey of the appointees as outlined per the SGA Constitution. “We have a lot of committee spots and it would be most beneficial to get these filled
sooner rather than later,” Greene said. “So if you know anyone within your organization that would be a good fit, let me know.” SGA Advisor Michelle Janisz added that Family Day is this weekend which also means that the second annual BBQ Cook Off will be Saturday as well. “We have a variety of local and regional vendors that are participating in the BBQ Competition,” Janisz said. “In addition to the first football game and to the fact that the weather is going to be great, I encourage you all to come out to Q-Lot. You can find more information about that off the OSA website.” Janisz also added that Homecoming is just three short weeks away. Applications are out for the variety of events that are scored during the week. More facts about Homecoming can be found on either the Homecoming or University Union Board pages.
2 NEWS
By Devon Greene editor-in-chief
The smell of barbeque will fill the air on Saturday as the University Union Board hosts their second annual Food, Family, Farming, Football BBQ Competition. This year, the UUB is expanding their reach as they are partnering with the School of Agriculture to run the competition. Along with the School of Agriculture, the UUB has gained multiple sponsors including Smithfield, Citizens Bank, Compeer Financial, the McDonough County Farm Bureau and the Hancock County Beef Association. Last year, the UUB sold over 500 tasting tickets which granted students access a sample from one team. This year, there will be six teams participating in the chase for six trophies that will be awarded by judes from the community, university and sponsors. The six trophies that will be awarded are,
WC Located on the third floor of the Heating Plant Annex on the south end of campus across from Sherman Hall. Mail: 1 University Circle, WIU, Macomb, IL 61455 Phone: 309-298-1876 Fax: 309-298-2309 Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays E-mail: micour@wiu.edu Member: Illinois College Press Association, National Association College Press
Friday, September 13, 2019 Grand Champion Overall, Reserve Grand Champion Overall, Grand Champion Ribs Overall, Reserve Grand Champion Ribs Overall, Grand Champion Brisket Overall and Reserve Grand Champion Brisket Overall. Along with all those awards, there will be a People’s Choice Award given out. “This year we are hoping for the event to be even better,” President of University Union Board Justin Brown said. “The event is a great way for the university, families and community to come together as one.” Along with all the food, music and face-painting will be offered before the Leatherneck football team takes the field at 3 p.m. Students can purchase tickets on the family day website or on Saturday at the Family Day table. The event will take place at 10:30 a.m. and end at 2 p.m. or until the meat runs out. Tasting tickets will cost $3 for one and $5 for two.
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UUB PRESENTS
2ND ANNUAL BBQ COOK OFF
STAFF MEMBERS editor-in-chief Devon Greene DJ-Greene@wiu.edu
proofreader Jacinda Martinez
news editor Marc Ramirez
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MA-Ramirez3@wiu.edu
photo editor Becca Langys
opinions editor Allison Young
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AN-Young@wiu.edu
assistant photo editor Sara Remar
sports editor Bradley Piros
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production manager Jimmy Pierson
assistant sports editor Chris Bean
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business manager Janiya Haynes
edge editor Rachel Greene
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advertising manager Tyler Hoffman
proofreader Alexis Lowe
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adviser Will Buss WJ-Buss@wiu.edu
PUBLISHING AND CIRCULATION The Western Courier is published Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during the regular school year, excluding holidays, finals week and semester breaks. The WC updates the website weekly during the summer. All content reflects the editorial discretion of the students operating the newspaper and must be interpreted as unofficial university communication. While every attempt is made to determine the validity of advertising contained herein, the advertising in the WC is not to be construed as endorsements of any specific products or services. The WC assumes no responsibility or liability resulting from the content of paid advertisements. Subscription price is $36 per year mailed third-class bulk rate from Macomb. The WC is printed by The Galesburg Register-Mail in Galesburg, Ill.
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Friday, September 13, 2019
NEWS 3
Notice of Examination Macomb Police Department The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners of the City of Macomb, Illinois hereby gives notice that examinations will be offered to all eligible applicants to create an Eligibility List for hiring for positions within the Macomb Police Department. At time of application, applicants must be at least 21 years of age and no more than 35 years of age. Military veterans may extend the age limit one year for every year of active duty, not to exceed ten years. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent; must have completed 60 semester or 90 quarter hours from an accredited academic institution; must possess a valid driver’s license. To move forward in the hiring process, applicants must pass physical and written exams, medical and psychological evaluation and background investigation; must have visual acuity 20/20 each eye corrected (minimum) with normal color vision and depth perception; must have good habits and be of moral character. Proof of U.S. Citizenship and if hired, McDonough County residence required.
STARTING SALARY as of 05/01/2019, $48,020.34 per year. Forty-hour work week with time and a half for all overtime. Application packets may be obtained at the Mayor’s Office, City Hall, 232 E. Jackson St., Macomb, Illinois 61455, Phone (309)-833-2558, or on-line at https://cityofmacomb.com/employment-listings/ All applications and attachments must be completed, signed and on file by 5:00 p.m., Monday, October 7, 2019. If submitting the application packet in the mail, it must be postmarked on or before the application deadline date AND received at the Mayor’s Office with five (5) calendar days of the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Testing date is October 26, 2019. Applicants should report to Brophy Hall on Western Illinois University campus at 7:30 a.m. The City reserves the right to require reimbursement of training expenses on a pro-rata basis if an officer resigns within the first two years of employment. The City of Macomb is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer Minorities and women are encouraged to apply
4
OPINIONS
Friday, September 13, 2019
WesternCourier.com
Crocs are in: a rebuttal I recently saw an article claiming that Crocs were not in and stating that they are ugly, dangerous and unacceptable to wear in public. An avid Croc wearer myself, I was clearly outraged. Looking down at my own Crocs, I was hurt. How dare someone who probably has not even owned a pair of crocs disrespect the growing community of Croc fans? Sure, the shoes are not like other shoes, but this does not make them any less valid in the shoe community. They are unique. Crocs are colorful, bold statement pieces that add a hint of fun to any outfit, comfortable and customizable. In a world
full of tragedy and sad news, Crocs add a beam of light that reminds us of joy. I am here to bring justice to my favorite shoe brand. While the writer of the article claimed that no one thinks Crocs are cute, I often see people matching Crocs to an outfit. The Crocs add that last little bit of flair, tying colors and themes together in a unique way. Sure, they may not fit the traditional idea of beauty, but does anything? It takes confidence to take these iconic pieces of shaped rubber and make them your own, but countless people do it every day. Platform Crocs have even hit the runway
recently. Extreme? Maybe. Iconic? Definitely. Crocs are ridiculously comfortable and that is a certified fact. The article claimed that the shoes cause foot pain and are strapless. First of all, beauty is pain. We wear high heels, flip flops, etc. Do you have a problem with these, too? No, you just need reasons to resist the comfort of the Croclite material. Getting to flex your fresh crocs is worth a little soreness down the road. Life is too short to worry about that. Second of all, two words: adventure mode. Crocs do have a strap! It is optional to make the clogs easier to slip on but it is certainly there. This argument simply is not valid. Until all strapless shoes are banned, I don’t want to hear it. Crocs are customizable! What other shoes can you customize in the same way
what is working in other countries. For example, the United States holds 31 percent of public mass shootings while only having 5 percent of the population. That should explain how much of an issue this is in our country, and how there is clearly a better way we could govern this issue. We need a policy that makes it possible for people who are stable enough to get guns, and people who are not, to not. This is important because there are people who rely on these weapons in order to live, so we need a very detailed system put in place. Another thing that could be better in the United States is the hate that is defended by freedom of speech. The reason I bring this issue up is because in Germany, it is illegal to flip someone off. This is just one supporting argument for revising the Constitution to make it illegal to express hate speech. I think this
would be a good change to make so that minority people who are verbally abused can get justice. I think this would have many positive impacts on our society, making it easier for people to take responsibility for their hateful actions. Obviously, this would need to be discussed thoroughly to correctly resolve the issue, but I think it should be considered. All of these issues can be curved, and possibly stopped if we revised the Constitution carefully in order to protect the citizens of our country. The current Constitution is far too old for it to be considered the “rules” of the United States in 2019. The rights of the people need to continuously change the way that society, and people change. I honestly do not believe we will be able to make any progress in this country if we do not fix our outdated policies. While I am aware of the issues this suggestion would cause, I think change is necessary for the United States to survive in the current society. If we do not make some kind of change soon, the country will live in overall fear and hate, and eventually we'll fade away.
as Crocs? The answer is none of them. Try sticking a charm to your Nike’s and see where that gets you. Jibbitz, the charms that attach to the iconic holes in Crocs, were designed to make your Crocs your own. From flowers, characters and even Greek letters, Jibbitz allow you to make the shoes your own. If this creative outlet does not capture your attention, you may just be boring. So, maybe Crocs are not your favorite thing in the world. Does this mean you have to wear them? Of course not! But throw a little respect on their name and let the people who genuinely love them have this. Are they bothering you that much? If so, stop pretending you are not interested and buy yourself a pair. Here’s to 18 more years of Crocs because these shoes are not going anywhere anytime soon.
Interested in writing
NEWS? contact Marc Ramirez News Editor
@ ma-ramirez3@wiu.edu
The issues in America are getting worse
In the new America, we have faced many, many issues that could be detrimental to the progress of the country in the future. The negative effects of American rights are becoming a serious problem in today’s society. These rights include gun rights, freedom of speech, etc. In my opinion, we need to revise the Constitution in order to maintain an updated outlook on the world. However, under the current government, I would not like it to happen right now. These problems are important, but it is more important to make sure we do not make it worse in an attempt to fix it. The reason I see an issue with gun rights, is because these deadly weapons can land in the wrong hands. This often ends up resulting in a massive amount of deaths, whether it is in a school, at a concert, etc. As I have previously said in an article, we need to take into consideration
The flag is a symbol of freedom in the United States.
FLICKR
OPINIONS 5
Friday, September 13, 2019
@WesternCourier
Instrumental vs. vocal music Music is interesting because it can relate to you on a mental and physical level. Music fills a room, sets the mood or tone and can make someone famous. I believe that the instruments are far more important than vocals. Instruments have been around for more than 30 thousand years, and with instruments, we have been able to make unique sounds that can make a song when chained together. A group of instruments playing in conjunction can make a whole auditorium feel full.
Some people have the natural ability to sing different notes and tunes and that is why it can become a career for some. What I am arguing is that instruments have more creative potential than vocals. Instruments alone are going to have an edge in the precision of notes that humans cannot hit without some type of tune adjustment. This precision allows for instruments to make sounds that can “hook” the listener, which is a term also used in the music world.
Emotion is typically tied with music because music can evoke certain emotions very easily from people. Things like suspense, happiness and sorrow are common emotions that people feel when listening to a piece of music. Smart directors know this and use this to make the listener feel a certain type of way. Sometimes music can be culture specific. Most of us westerners will associate songs played in major to be a happy tone while minor being sadder. In other cultures and places, the opposite is true and it is a learned trait, not an innate one. This is why it is important to know your audience. Another thing that instruments have over vocals is tune and language. Vocals
are affected by accents and language, but instruments are consistent tools to get the sound that you desire. Regardless of where you are from or how you were raised, instruments, when played correctly, will have the same sound. Remixes are something that we have gotten used to in the 21st century, and all of these remixes have the instrumentals being manipulated to the discretion of the individual. The reason that this is possible without people getting tired of music entirely is because of the emotion that the tune draws out of people. With the implementation of computer software that allows you to make remixes and beats, instrumentals can be made with extreme fluid-
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ity and blending with minimal effort and less people. After the instrumental is finished, the creator has a new piece. Unlike vocals, it is harder to accuse someone of stealing because instrumentals have been using pieces of other instrumentals a lot, especially recently. The most important thing is that instrumentals can be the foundation and used with vocals. Vocals have a role in a good song and add to the story or the emotion the song is trying to give. The bottom line is that both vocals and instruments work in conjunction. If it sounds good, then you will have some type of emotion towards the song. As long as the song makes you feel something, it has done its job.
Contact Allison Young
AN-Young@wiu.edu Editorial Policy
The editorial views of the Western Courier shall be confined to this editorial and are to be separate from news coverage otherwise noted. The editorial presented is based on the ideas and views of the WC editorial board.Columns are the opinions of the columnists alone and should not be construed as the opinions and beliefs of the WC staff as a whole.
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2019 Fall Semester Editorial Board
Edge Editor - Marc Ramirez Editor-in-Chief - Devon Greene Opinions Editor - Allison Young
6
Friday, September 13, 2019
SPORTS
WesternCourier.com
Volleyball believes record doesn't reflect their gameplay By Becca Langys photo editor
BECCA LANGYS / PHOTO EDITOR
Aubrey Putman gets down low for a dig.
BECCA LANGYS / PHOTO EDITOR
Elle Shult makes a block a the net.
DAYTON, Ohio — The Western Illinois women’s volleyball team is headed to the Wright State Invitational in Dayton for their third tournament appearance of the season. The Leathernecks are scheduled to play in three games this weekend, with opponents including the University of Toledo, Wright State and Indiana State. The Purple and Gold are entering this weekend with a 3-4 record. The Leathernecks are coming off a loss against Drake University, but their record does not reflect their gameplay. The team has displayed huge amounts of drive and talent this season thus far, and they will continue pushing towards getting more wins during the upcoming weekend. The new additions to the Leatherneck roster have been largely impactful on the quality of play that Western has been displaying. Freshman Libero Gabby DePersio has stood out for her impressive defensive skills. Although she is the shortest on the team, sizing up to only 5-foot-3-inches, she is arguably one of the most talented players on the Leatherneck roster. DePersio has 94 total digs this season so far. Freshman middle-hitter Elle Shult is another standout freshman on Western’s roster. Shult has raked up 30 kills and 13 blocks for the Leathernecks. This Leatherneck is 6-foot-3-inches, making her the tallest player in the lineup. Shult adds not only height, but also skill to the team. Another Leatherneck freshman that has been largely impactful is setter Jessie Connell. Connell is currently the assistleader for the Leathernecks, raking up
a total of 149 assists this season so far. Connell also leads the team with 13 service aces, and she contributes defensively with 42 total digs. Outside-Hitter Aubrey Putman is the fourth and final freshman that has been added to the Leatherneck roster for the 2019 season. Putman has raked up 37 kills for the Western so far this season. Defensively, Putman has contributed with her 49 total digs earned. Looking at the upcoming weekend, the Leathernecks look to line up pretty closely to their three opponents that they are scheduled to face off with. Toledo University will enter the tournament with a 4-2 overall record, Wright State with a 5-1 record and Indiana State with an 0-6 record. Western should be evenly matched this weekend, which will be a good opportunity for them to prove themselves on the court. Several times this season, the Leathernecks have fallen short of their potential, coming out with a few losses, and they look to improve upon that. This is arguably one of the stronger rosters that the Western Illinois women’s volleyball team has had in the last few years, although their record so far does not reflect that. The Leathernecks are still being led by a few upperclassmen including junior outside-hitter Emma Norris, senior outside-hitter JoJo Kruize and senior outside-hitter Mackenzie Steckler. These Leathernecks have displayed strong leadership on the court for the younger players, setting an impeccable example for them. They are an integral part of the program. The Leathernecks are scheduled to play at 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 13 and at 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Saturday Sept. 14. Twitter: @beccalangysxo
BECCA LANGYS / PHOTO EDITOR
Gabby DePersio sets the ball.
BECCA LANGYS / PHOTO EDITOR
Jessie Connell passes to a teammate.
CLASSIFIEDS
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For Rent
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For Rent
Spacious 2-5 bedroom homes for rent. 10 month lease available. Great locations, close to bus stops, plenty off street parking, all new windows, AC, energy efficient furnace, hardwood and ceramic tile floors, free washer/dryer. Well maintained (24 hrs.) by local landlord. Call 309-255-1233.
LARGE STUDENT RENTALS 5 and 6 Bedroom Homes are still available!! Ask for our $1000.00 Discount program! Firsrt come first serve for the last large homes that are open for the fall.
Available now: Close to campus, clean studio apartments, excellent condition, reasonable rent, and partly furnished. Ceiling fans and a/c. Professionally maintained. No pets. Semester leases offered. Call 309 837 4369 and leave your phone number if not there. Email: MandKhousing@gmail.com
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Houses for Rent 2016/2017: A&D Real Estate has several 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses for rent, all with at least 2 bathrooms, recently rennovated and located close to campus. Call for a tour or visit our website at www.wiucollegerentals.com. Local landlord with a focus on clean and updated housing with personal service for your college housing needs. 309-313-1122. FALL INTO SAVINGS with Charleston Boulevard Apartments! Now offering SPECIAL RATES through Dec. 2017! Call for specific details 309-833-4545!. NICE, CLEAN, WELL MAINTAINED 1 TO 6 BEDROOM HOUSES FOR 2016-2017 Our houses have hard wood floors, ceramic tile, central air, washer and dryer and are close to campus with plenty of parking. We offer a ten month lease so you don’t pay for the months you aren’t here. Please call 309-255-1959 for a showing. Now showing for 2017 & 2018 year 2, 3, and 5 bedrooms homes all close to campus. Call 309-331-4565. Westen Investments has only two 4-Bedroom brich houses available. Call our office at 309-833-5995 to schedule a showing! We will show to 2-3 person groups as well! STC Investments now leasing for the 18/19 school year. We have 1-6 bedroom apartments/houses ready for you to call home! Check out our selection at www.stcinvestments.com. You can also find us on Facebook to see daily posts!
NICE, CLEAN, WELL MAINTAINED 1 TO 6 BEDROOM HOUSES FOR 2017-2018 Our houses have wood floors, ceramic tile, W/D, central air, and are close to campus with plentry of parking. We offer low rent and a 10 month lease to save you money! Call 309-255-1959 for a showing. Small 1BR apt near campus and downtown. All utilities included. (Electric, Water, DISH, Garbage) $500/month, $300 deposit. Available immediately. Also have 2BR, you pay electric. $600/month, $350 deposit available September 1st. Please contact 309-255-4367 for a showing. Timbercrest Apartments 1587 Riverview Drive Now showing 1 & 2 Bedroom Units. Very clean, close to WIU campus with bus stop in front of building. Washer/dryer available in most units, all other appliances included, FREE INTERNET, ceiling fans in every room, pet friendly. All units have off street parking and private decks overlooking campus. Both 10- and 12-month leases are available. Openings for Summer 2017 and school year 2017/2018. Deposit required. Phone (309)833-3192 and leave message. Westen Investments has just one 3-Bedroom ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED (Water, Sewer, Trash, Gas, Electric, and Internet) Apartment left! That’s right you just pay for rent, and the rest of it is on us! Call our office at 309-833-5995 to check it out. The nicer apartments are going fast, excellent service- 24 hour emergency maintenance. Reasonable prices. Studio, 1-3 bedrooms, locations on/off campus available ‘18-’19 school year. Check us out at rentcollegepads.com. If interested, please call F & H Rentals 309/837-1705.
RATES $5.50 per issue (open rate) $4.00 per issue (campus rate)
ALL APARTMENTS - ALL INCLUSIVE Get control of your budget. Know exactly what you are spending each month. Each apartment includes free a/c, free heat, free electricity, free water, free cable tv, free hi speed internet, and free off street parking. Laundry on site. No noise policy. Bus stop across the street. Close to campus. Well maintained. Studios are $460/mo, One bedrooms are $620/mo. Call Doug at 309-255-8179 for an appointment. For Rent: Little Swan Lake, 30 min from campus. 2br, 2bth, heated double car garage with work area. $600 per mo. (309) 335-2206 after 6:00 pm, may leave message anytime. Spacious 3 Bedroom Upper in Duplex close to campus and Jackson St. All utilities furnished and appliances Includes cable and internet 18/19 school year $375.00 per Br Ph 309 255 8086 Please leave message Still have some nice large locations available at reasonable prices. Excellent service- 24 hour emergency maintenance. 1-8 bedrooms, locations on/off campus available ‘18-’19 school year. Pets at some locations. Check us out at rentcollegepads.com. If interested, please call F & H Rentals 309/837-1705.
Sports 7
Friday, September 13, 2019
@WesternCourier
Reranking College Football top 25 Zach Remelius courier staff
No. 1 Clemson: They didn’t dominate Texas A&M like most thought they could, but a 24-10 win is nothing to sneeze at. The defense looked scary good, shutting down the Aggie run game and pressuring Kellen Mond, forcing him into bad throw after bad throw. If the offense can get to where they should, this team will coast through the ACC. Next game @ Syracuse. No. 2 Alabama: Another yawner for the Crimson Tide as they beat the tar out of New Mexico State 62-10. Tua didn’t put up insane numbers, completing 16/24 passes for 227 yards. It will be a couple weeks before Alabama truly gets tested. Next game @ South Carolina. No. 3 LSU: The Tigers winning a shootout is something most thought they would never see. Joe Burrow was dynamic as were a trio of wide receivers who went for 100 yards. The defense needs to catch up, but with the talent they have, they should. LSU is definitely a playoff contender. Next game vs Northwestern State. No. 4 Georgia: Nothing can really be learned from a beatdown of FCS Murray State. The offense was efficient and the defense struggled in the first quarter but then turned it on. Georgia is still a contender but a soft schedule made them drop. Next Game vs Arkansas State. No. 5 Oklahoma: Another team that played an FCS team; this time it was South Dakota who took a beating. Jalen Hurts wasn’t as amazing as he was in the opener, but he is still the favorite for the Heisman. All eyes are still on a defense that needs to be better. Next Game @ UCLA. No. 6 Ohio State: If Jalen Hurts is leading the Heisman conversation, Justin Fields is right behind him. Ohio State obliterated a good Cincinnati team. The defense pitched a shutout and the Buckeyes are gearing up for another run at a Big 10 title. Next Game @ Indiana.
No. 7 Auburn: Beating Tulane 24-6 is what Auburn should do. The defense is fantastic and really should carry this team. Bo Nix looked like a true freshman at times and struggled mightily at points in this game. If Auburn is going to make any type of run for the SEC, he will need to put it together. Next game vs Kent State. No. 8 Notre Dame: Notre Dame was on a bye, they have one more tune-up game before heading down to Athens to play Georgia. Next game vs New Mexico. No. 9 Utah: After a scary first half against Northern Illinois, the Utes found themselves and dominated the second half for a 35-17 win. The offense is still sputtering at times, though, and for Utah to accomplish what a lot of people think they can accomplish, Tyler Huntley will need to pull it together on offense as the quarterback. Next game vs Idaho State. No. 10 Florida: TennesseeMartin was never going to pose a challenge for the Gators in the swamp in a 45-0 win. Feleipe Franks was great, going 25/27 and two touchdowns, but he won’t have it this easy for the rest of the schedule. Next game @ Kentucky. No. 11 Michigan: Be happy, Wolverine fans, that you are ranked this high. Army should have won that game and were the better team throughout. If the Wolverines don’t pull this together, Jim Harbough will come under heavy scrutiny. Army is a good team and has a chance to win 10 games again, but for a Michigan team with title aspirations, that is something that can’t happen at home. They won, though, so everything is still on the table and they are on a bye week before starting Big 10 play. Next game @ Wisconsin. No. 12 Penn State: Sean Clifford has stepped in and played very well through two games at quarterback, throwing for four touchdowns this week and avoid-
ing turnovers. Buffalo led 10-7 at half, but 28 third quarter points put the game away for the Nittany Lions. Next game vs Pittsburgh. No. 13 Wisconsin: The combined score of the two Badger games so far is 1100. A 61-0 win over Central Michigan will help that. Jack Coan threw for 363 yards and three touchdowns and Jonathon Taylor ran for three touchdowns. The Badgers will get tested here in a couple weeks after a bye. Next game vs Michigan No. 14 Texas: The Big 12 title is still certainly in reach for the Longhorns, but the playoffs might be out of reach. That pass defense is going to get torched in the Big 12 if it doesn’t get fixed. Sam Ehlinger again looked great, throwing for 401 yards and four touchdowns but if the defense doesn’t come together, Ehlinger ’s Heisman numbers will be for nought. Next game @ Rice. No. 15 UCF: The pass game was awful as Dillon Gabriel went 7-19, but a majority of those completions went for big gains as he had 245 yards and two touchdowns. UCF had three players go for at least 75 yards rushing though and the defense was pretty good against Florida Atlantic. That New Year's Six group of five is still UCF’s to lose. Next game vs Stanford. No. 16 Texas A&M: Aggie fans should be pleased with the defense as they limited Clemson to 24 points. That offense needs work, though. Kellen Mond looked like he did his freshman year, constantly making bad decisions and throwing into traffic. The Aggies could never establish the run game either to take the heat of Mond. A tough schedule looms for the Aggies and Mond will need to play better for this to be a successful season. Next game vs Lamar. No. 17 Oregon: The Ducks took out all their frustrations on Nevada in a 77-6 win. Justin Herbert threw for five touchdowns and his backup Tyler Shough threw for two. The Ducks' playoff hopes may be done, but they still have the Pac-12 title to play for. Next game vs Montana. No. 18 Iowa: Suffocating
defense led to a 30-0 win over Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights has a 47 yards passing and were held to under 80 yards rushing. Nate Stanley did what he had to do to lead the offense, and that is avoiding turnovers. He threw for three touchdowns and now gets ready for a rivalry game. Next game @ Iowa State. No. 19 Michigan State: An offensive outburst against Western Michigan led the Spartans to a 51-17 win. Brian Lewerke showed why he was a very highly touted quarterback two years ago. Elijah Collins went for 192 yards on the ground as the Spartans look for some revenge this week. Next game vs Arizona State. No. 20 Washington State: Anthony Gordon put up more numbers as the Cougars beat down Northern Colorado. There really is nothing to say more than that as they prep for Pac-12 play. Next game @ Houston. No. 21 Maryland: Is this offense legit? A week after putting up 79 points against Howard, the Terrapins put up 63 against Syracuse. Josh Jackson again looked good behind center and the running game, led by Javon Leake, was again awesome. The run defense for Maryland was solid enough to force a lot of long throws for the Syracuse offense. Maryland isn’t a threat to win the Big 10 East, but their efforts so far should be commended. Next game vs Temple. No. 22 Boise State: The Broncos had a letdown game after coming back against Florida State. Thankfully, the defense was able to limit Marshall and the offense was able to make just enough plays for a 14-7 win.Next game vs Portland State. No. 23 USC: Graham Harrell might be really good at this offensive coordinator stuff. After struggling on offense all last season, the USC offense has been electric. Even with a backup quarterback, the Trojans did whatever they wanted against Stanford in what is a weak Pac-12 South. USC will challenge Utah for that top spot. Next game @ BYU. No. 24 Kentucky: Unfortunately, the story this week for the Wildcats isn’t
a 38-17 win over Eastern Michigan. The story is starting QB Terry Wilson being out for the season. Sawyer Smith will take over the starting job after transferring from Troy. The Kentucky defense is really talented and with the Gators coming to town, they have a chance to showcase how good they really are. Next game vs Florida. No. 25 Virginia: The Cavaliers did whatever they wanted against William & Mary in a 52-17 win. The team is getting ready to host Florida State in a game that will test how good this team really is. Next game vs Florida State. Under Consideration: Mississippi State and Colorado. Biggest win: LSU went on the road and beat a very capable Texas team. Joe Burrow was outstanding, throwing for 471 yards and four touchdowns. The defense needs some work as the Longhorns were able to almost do whatever what they wanted on offense, but that side of the ball should be okay. Worst Loss: Washington. Losing at home to California ruins any playoff dreams the Huskies had. Jacob Eason looked completely average, going 18/30 for 162 yards. The Huskies run defense was brutal and on offense they probably should have leaned more on the run game. Breakout performance: Joe Burrow. There was a lot of talk coming out of Baton Rouge about the Tigers' new look offense, and after two weeks it has proven to be different. Gone is the two running back two tight end looks and here is the spread. Burrow was completely in control of the offense and put himself in the Heisman conversation with his performance in Austin. Disappointing Performance: Stanford. For so long, Stanford has been a Pac-12 power and usually a contender for the North if not a conference title. They played USC and got dominated as USC’s backup quarterback Kedon Slovis threw with relative ease, going 28/33 for 377 yards. They were a top 25 team and now we will wait and see if they are even a bowl team.
By Josh Purnell courier staff
GOLEATHERNECKS.COM
Kyle William blocks his opponent.
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John Brunner runs with the ball.
The Western Illinois University football team will have their first home game of the season tomorrow afternoon at Hanson Field against Montana State University at 3 p.m. This will be Western’s third matchup against Montana State and they are hoping to add a win to this series. The Fighting Leathernecks started the season off on the wrong foot, recording 0-2 on the season. Both games were on the road against University of North Alabama and Colorado State. Adding a win to the win column can keep a playoff run possible, although Western has not been to the playoffs in two years. Junior quarterback Connor Sampson will start his first home game of the season. Sampson was voted team captain and will be the new quarterback for the Leathernecks this season. He backed up Sean McGuire, who is Western’s all time leader in yards and touchdowns. In the last two games, Sampson has thrown 334 yards with a touchdown and only one interception.
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Jarren Jackson looks into the crowd at ISU.
Sampson will offensively be backed up by running back Kendon Walker and receiver Tony Tate. Walker has 110 rushing yards and zero touchdowns on the season. Tate has six catches for 94 yards and one touchdown on the season. On the defensive side of the ball, Western’s defense has given up 64 points in the last two games. Junior Kyle William led the team with 12 tackles and one sack. Junior Mike Viti had an outstanding performance against Colorado State with 11 tackles and one forced fumble. With these two players on the field, the opposing team has a problem. The defense is a big part of this team and there will be high expectations going into tomorrow’s game. For the opponents, the competition may be tough this week. Montana State is coming off a victory against Southeast Missouri State, winning 38-17. Their overall record for the season is 1-1. The Bobcats offense is led by freshman quarterback Casey Bauman, who has 234 yards with two touchdowns and only one interception for the season. Montana State has a
strong run game led by sophomore Isaiah Ifanse, who has 197 yards and zero touchdowns. Ifanse broke for a 62 yard run against Southeast Missouri State, the longest run of the season. Out wide, their number one receiver, senior Kevin Kassis, has nine catches for 129 yards and zero touchdowns. The Bobcats’ defense will be led by senior defensive end Bryce Sterk, who has 12 tackles and four sacks for the season. In the secondary, senior JoJo Henderson has three solo tackles and leads the team with one interception. Although the Fighting Leathernecks started the season 0-2, one thing we know about the Leathernecks is that they never give up; they keep fighting and fighting till the clock hits zero. This win will determine the team’s season as they face a tough matchup against the Bobcats. Expect Sampson to put on a show and for the defense to prove why they are the best defense in the Missouri Valley Conference. Western Illinois’ next game will be versus Tennessee Tech University at 3 p.m. at Hanson Field.
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Senior quarterback Connor Sampson hands the ball off.
GOLEATHERNECKS.COM
Mike Viti walks back to the line of scrimmage.
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Eryk Preston makes a catch while on the run.
BECCA LANGYS / PHOTO EDITOR
Tony Tate turns after making a catch.