Quincy, IL - It's rivalry week for the McKendree University Football team (1-3, 1-1 GLVC), as the Bearcats head northwest to face the Quincy Hawks (3-1, 1-0 GLVC) in the annual Battle for the Land of Lincoln game. McKendree is aiming to reclaim the Top Hat trophy and build momentum after securing their first league win of the season, while the Hawks look to extend their start and defend home turf. Kickoff is set for 3:00 PM CST on Saturday, October 4th from QU Stadium in Quincy.
HOW TO FOLLOW THE GAME
Watch Live ($) (GLVCSN)
Listen Live (Free) (105.1 FM WGEM)
Live Stats (Sidearm Sports)
Tickets are Cash Only ($15 Chairback, $10 Bleacher)
RECAPPING WILLIAM JEWELL
McKendree notched its first victory of the 2025 season with a 40-24 win over William Jewell at Leemon Field. Quarterback
Ty Michael threw for 394 yards and two scores, spreading the ball to seven different receivers.
Eddie Clark powered the ground game once again with 93 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and 201 all purpose yards. Wideout
Quincy Hall Jr. added a touchdown reception, and kicker
Chase Reeves tied a program single-game record with four made field goals, including a 50-yard kick that was the second-longest in program history. Defensively, McKendree forced two turnovers and racked up five sacks, with
Dameion Hatten posting two of them to help keep the Cardinals in check.
UPDATES ON THE BEARCATS
McKendree enters Saturday averaging 345.8 yards of total offense per game, with Michael's passing accouting for more than 280 yards per outing. Clark has carried the rushing load with 72 attempts for 315 yards and three touchdowns, while also contributing as the occasional receiver.
Brylan Apholone and
Quincy Hall Jr. have combined for more than 350 receiving yards and four touchdowns. On defense, the Bearcats have been opportunistic, forcing six turnovers through four contests. The front line is anchored by
Dameion Hatten, who currently leads all of NCAA Division II in tackles for loss, making him one of the nation's most disruptive linemen. Linebackers
Nick Bova and
Logan Turbyfill add stability, while Reeves has given the team one of the GLVC's most consistent special teams weapons (9-for-11 FGs).
SCOUTING QUINCY
The Hawks come in riding momentum after a 31-14 win at Wayne State. Quarterback Bradyn Little has led the way, throwing for 843 yards, eight touchdowns, and zero interceptions on 69% passing. Running back Kamrin Cox leads the offense with 234 rushing yards and is also the top receiver with 241 yards and three scores. Defensively, Quincy allows just 16.3 points per game and under 300 yards per contest. Linebacker Brock Wiley has a team-high 34 tackles, while defensive lineman Jaylin Vaughn has recorded 2.5 sacks.
BEARCAT KEYS TO THE GAME
Strike First
McKendree averages 6.3 first quarter points per game. Matching Quincy's quick starts will be critical to set the tone early.
Feed Clark
Eddie Clark is the centerpiece of the run game. Giving him touches would balance Michael's passing against the Hawks' defense.
Disrupt the Offense
Hatten's nation-leading TFL production has been game-changing. Sustained pressure on the Hawks will be essential.
Win the Turnover Battle
Quincy owns a +4 turnover margin. The Bearcats must avoid giveaways and create takeaways to flip momentum.
Win the Special Teams Game
Chase Reeves' consistency and range provides McKendree with a proven edge, but coverage will also be a factor in creating deep starting field position for the Hawks.
WHAT'S AT STAKE
The Top Hat and Land of Lincoln bragging rights are on the line, but so is early positioning in the GLVC race. A victory would elevate McKendree to 2-1 in league play and keep the Bearcats within striking distance of the top of the standings. For Quincy, a win would solidify a then 4-1 start and extend their streak in the rivalry series.
