Eastern Washington University enters its season finale against Cal Poly with uncertainties surrounding its starting quarterback. The game will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday in San Luis Obispo, California.
Big Sky Matchup: Eastern Washington vs. Cal Poly
Cal Poly holds a record of 3-8 overall and 1-6 in the Big Sky Conference. Despite this, Eastern Washington head coach Aaron Best acknowledges the Mustangs’ competitive spirit. He pointed out their close games against tougher opponents, suggesting their record may not reflect their actual performance. “They’ve played some really good ball,” Best stated.
Cal Poly’s Challenging Season
Cal Poly’s schedule has been particularly tough in the Big Sky Conference, facing the top seven teams in the standings. Their only league victory came against Sacramento State, where they won 32-24 in the season opener. Under head coach Paul Wulff, the Mustangs aim to exceed their three-win total for the first time since 2018. Wulff has a track record of 9-24 since taking over the program.
Key Factors in Saturday’s Game
- Quarterback Situation: Jake Schakel’s availability remains unclear. Best described his condition as “not all good, not all bad.” Schakel will travel, but if he cannot play, true freshman Kaden Rolfsness may step in as the fourth starter this season. His previous performance included just one pass attempt.
- Running Back Performance: Eastern Washington is still searching for a running back to achieve 100 rushing yards in a game. The current running back committee has collectively rushed for 490 yards, with none exceeding 79 yards in a single game.
- Defensive Interceptions: The Eastern Washington defense ranks among the top in the Big Sky, with 13 interceptions this season, second only to Montana. Redshirt sophomore safety Jaylon Jenkins leads the team with five interceptions.
As the Eagles strive for a .500 finish, both teams find motivation in the season’s conclusion. Coach Best emphasizes teamwork and adaptability as crucial elements, regardless of player changes. With a mix of strategic play and defensive prowess, fans can expect an exciting matchup on Saturday.
