CHENEY, Wash. — The Eastern Washington Eagles won their first game of the year Thursday evening, defeating the Monmouth Hawks 42-27 at Roos Field.
The Eagles kicked off the 2024-25 season with a bang in Thursday night's game, getting out to a 28-14 lead at the end of the first half.
Quarterback Kekoa Visperas had a strong first half for Eastern, completing 17-19 passing attempts for 196 yards and three touchdowns.
Efton Chism III was arguably Visperas' favorite target in the first half, as he had seven catches for 111 yards and one touchdown after the first half.
The Visperas-Chism III connection continued in the second half, as the two connected for another touchdown to give the Eagles a 35-14 lead. They connected again in the fourth quarter for the duo's third touchdown pass and catch of the night.
Monmouth scored its first points of the second half in the beginning of the fourth quarter, but it wouldn't be enough as the Eagles would come away with the dominant victory.
The Eagles sealed Thursday night's victory thanks to an interception from Kentrell Williams Jr.
Visperas finished the night completing 25 of 28 throws for 275 yards and five touchdowns, while Chism III finished the night with 12 catches for 173 yards and three touchdowns.
The now 1-0 Eagles will play their next game on Saturday, September 7 against the Drake Bulldogs at Roos Field.
