Eastern Michigan University’s football squad kicked off its Mid-American Conference schedule with a 28-17 victory over Sacramento State, a result that underscored the Eagles’ depth on both sides of the ball.
Key Performances
Quarterback Noah Kim was the offensive engine, completing 27 of 38 passes for 279 yards and two touchdowns while also adding a rushing score. His effort not only secured the win but also placed him among the program’s most productive players, ranking fourth in career passing yards and now topping the school’s all-time rushing touchdown list.
Defensive standout Zach Mowchan anchored the effort with 14 tackles, including seven solo stops and a half-sack, helping limit the Hornets to just 10 points. The unit forced two turnovers and held Sacramento State to a mere 34 yards in the first half, a stark contrast to the previous season’s defensive lapses.
Special teams contributed significantly as well. Nick Devereaux returned three kicks for 81 yards, highlighted by a 40-yard return that set up a scoring drive. His 154 all-purpose yards marked a career high and positioned him as a dynamic playmaker for the Eagles.
The win also reflected a broader improvement in the program’s culture, as the defense posted a season-low 10 points allowed and the offense capitalized on efficient passing. Head coach praised the collective effort, noting that the team’s execution in all three phases bodes well for the remainder of the schedule.