Eastern Illinois holds off Indiana State 27-20 in home opener

CHARLESTON, Ill. — Pierce Holley hit Cooper Willman from five yards out late in the third quarter, allowing Eastern Illinois to hold off Indiana State 27-20 in the Panthers' home opener Saturday.

Moses Alexander recovered an Indiana State fumble in the end zone early in the second quarter to put the Panthers in front for good, 14-7, and Drew Schiller kicked second-half field goals from 34 and 40 yards out to hold off the Sycamores.

Elijah Owens accounted for more than 300 yards to lead Indiana State (0-2). He ran for 44 yards on 12 carries and threw for 260 yards, completing 30 of 37 passes with three touchdowns and three interceptions.

Holley completed 19 of 32 passes for a touchdown and an interception for Eastern Illinois (1-1). MJ Flowers carried 24 times for 94 yards. Terrance Gipson pulled in six passes for 100 yards, while NiJhay Burt had a pair of interceptions.