Story by Keith Jaco
Staff Writer
rjaco@murraystate.edu
Murray State football extended its win streak to four games on Saturday, Oct. 20 as it defeated Eastern Kentucky University 34-6 at Roy Kidd Stadium.
The Racers sit alone atop the OVC following their win over EKU and Jacksonville State’s loss to Southeast Missouri State on Saturday.
Head Coach Mitch Stewart praised his entire team after the win over Eastern Kentucky.
“I’m proud of the way the offense fought and how solid we were on special teams, but man, the way the defense played today was incredible. They played on edge and with an urgency in them.”
Sophomore running back Rodney Castille got the start over sophomore D.J. Penick and delivered with nine carries for 50 yards and one touchdown. Senior quarterback Drew Anderson had another good week for the Racers, going 20-30 and amassing 205 yards and two touchdowns.
Anderson knew remaining calm and being patient would benefit the Racers at the end of the day.
“We knew we’d have our chance and that big play by Kenny was huge,” Anderson said. “Coach Coleman and coach Stewart always tell me to just play ball, go out and play your best and try to make something happen.”
The Racer defense built off of last week’s effort against Tennessee State by allowing just two field goals and six points all afternoon. Senior linebacker Quincy Williams and freshman cornerback Quinaz Turner each had interceptions, Williams returning his for 85 yards before being downed on the 1-yard line.
Senior defensive end Kenney Wooten had a monstrous performance with three sacks and seven total tackles on the day. Williams got in on the most action with 10 total tackles.
Senior kicker Gabriel Vicente remained perfect on the season with two field goal attempts and four extra points.
Stewart was excited about celebrating this win with his team and getting back to work.
“There’s nothing like being a Racer on a Saturday night after a win, and that’s what we’re working for each week. We’re going to enjoy this one and get back to work on Jacksonville State come Monday.”
Murray State will host Jacksonville State for its homecoming game at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27, at Roy Stewart Stadium.