Normally, a victory by the Eastern Michigan football team might not be newsworthy. But when the Eagles get their first win in 19 games, it's worth a mention.
↵Coach Ron English can finally put a win on his record, after EMU scored a touchdown to beat Ball State in overtime, 41-38. The Cardinals took a 38-35 lead on a 44-yard field. On the Eagles' possession, quarterback Alex Gillett hit tight end Ben Thayer on third down for a nine-yard score and a feeling an EMU football team hasn't experienced since November 28, 2008.
↵Early on, it looked as if EMU was on its way to a 19th straight loss. Ball State took a 28-7 lead late in the second quarter. But the Eagles came screeching back with 28 unanswered points, and took a 35-28 lead with less than five minutes remaining in regulation. That was enough time for the Cardinals to put together a game-tying touchdown drive, however.
↵Gillett carried the ball 35 times for 189 yards, setting a school record for quarterbacks in both categories. He also rushed for two scores. In addition, Gillett completed 10-of-18 passes for 225 yards and three touchdowns.
↵Eastern Michigan plays next Saturday at Virginia. The game can be seen at ESPN3.com, beginning at 6 p.m. ET.
↵For more on the Mid-American conference at SB Nation, please check out Hustle Belt.
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