CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Austin Peay football team is preparing for a home matchup with the Eastern Kentucky Colonels this Saturday at Fortera Stadium. The Govs enjoyed their bye week last weekend after playing nine consecutive games to open the season.
Despite being on a bye, the Govs still jumped in the rankings. The AFCA Coaches Poll now has the Govs at No. 7 in the country, which is the highest ranking in program history. This weekend, the Govs will look to pick up a win over the Colonels and continue rising as we approach the postseason.
This will be the 18th meeting between EKU and Austin Peay in the modern era. EKU leads the all-time series 11-6 and has currently won two in a row. Now, let’s dive in and find out more about this EKU team.
What to know about Eastern Kentucky
Entering this matchup, the Colonels have a 3-6 overall record, with a 2-2 mark in conference play. The team has conference wins over West Florida and West Georgia, with conference losses to North Alabama and Tarleton State. Notably, the Colonels only lost by a combined eight points to North Alabama and Tarleton State.
On offense, the Colonels love to run the ball. No team in the UAC has more team carries, and the team averages 170.9 rushing yards per game. Brady Hensley is third in the UAC with 771 yards rushed in 2026, so that’s a player the Govs will have to stop.
| MORE: Check out more coverage of APSU sports
The quarterback situation has been in flux for EKU throughout this season, who have had four different quarterbacks attempt at least 17 passes. The Colonels are only averaging 184.3 passing yards per game, but with their rushing attack, time of possession has also been key for the Colonels as they lead the conference in this category as well.
Typically, EKU teams are known for their defense. That’s not the case this year, as the Colonels are allowing 385.2 total yards and 28.7 points per game. As a result, the Govs and star quarterback Chris Parson should have plenty of opportunities to hit big plays.
Game prediction: Govs end series losing streak, keep rolling toward playoffs
As mentioned above, the Colonels’ defense is not what it once was. Parson should have plenty of opportunities to throw the ball down the field, and I imagine the Colonels’ secondary will have a tough time keeping up with the duo that is Denver Harper and Marvin Sims.
Parson also should be able to find rushing lanes and make plays with his legs throughout the contest, as the Colonels allow just under 163 rushing yards per contest.
With Austin Peay also riding a losing streak against EKU, expect Clarksville’s hometown team to be extra motivated come Saturday, which will lead them to victory.
The game between the Govs and Colonels is at 3p.m. Saturday at Fortera Stadium. For tickets, go to the Austin Peay page on Ticketmaster or call 931-221-PEAY (7329).
| SPORTS REPORT: Sign up for the new weekly Clarksville sports newsletter