Western Wayne Today

The Wayne State University football team is set to face Davenport on the road this Saturday at 2 p.m. in Caledonia. The Panthers currently hold a 4-2 record overall and are 1-1 in the GLIAC.

Wayne State will attempt to break their losing streak of eight games, which includes six losses against ranked teams. The Warriors and Panthers have an even history, each winning three times in their previous encounters.

Davenport, ranked 40th nationally by the AFCA, enters the game with a recent victory over Michigan Tech after a loss to No. 2 Grand Valley State. Head Coach Sparky McEwen, in his eighth season, has led the Panthers to a 37-35 record and an NCAA Division II playoff berth last year.

Quarterbacks Mike O'Horo and D'Wan Mathis lead Davenport's offense with over 1,100 combined passing yards this season. Preston Smith is the top receiver with 224 yards and three touchdowns, while Myren Harris leads their rushing attack with two scores.

Wayne State's defense has been strong in forcing turnovers, recovering five fumbles this season. Senior linebacker Carl Ware ranks high nationally for forced fumbles among active Division II players.

Champion Edwards made headlines earlier this season as the first WSU quarterback since Doug Griffin in 2013 to rush for over 100 yards in a game. Redshirt senior wide receiver Myles McKatherine leads the team with three touchdown receptions this year.

The Warriors have played one of the toughest schedules so far according to D2 rankings, facing opponents with a combined winning percentage of .667.

This weekend’s matchup will be crucial for both teams as they vie for supremacy within their conference standings.