Eastern Michigan Athletics
Eastern Insider Podcast - Season 7 - Episode 9
10/22/2024 7:00:00 PM | Football, General
Epic Comeback and a Glimpse into Football Legacy
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YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) -- In Episode 9 of Eastern Insider, hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner kick things off with a lively breakdown of Eastern Michigan's improbable victory over Central Michigan. They delve into the absurd odds—99.6%—that Central Michigan had to win late in the game, only for Eastern to steal the win with grit and composure. Helmer quips about his high school struggles with similar odds, lightening the mood before diving into football analysis.
The hosts discuss how EMU "out-Chippewa-ed the Chippewas," referencing Central's previous come-from-behind victories, and how Eastern returned the favor with a dramatic rally. The spotlight shifts to quarterback Cole Snyder, whose ability to compartmentalize mistakes and stay calm under pressure has earned him a growing fan following. Described as "Clark Kent cool," Snyder's poise—even after a scoop-and-score against him—marks him as a rising star. His dual-threat ability is also emphasized, with Steiner noting how Snyder's running game adds an extra dimension to EMU's offense.
The conversation shifts toward EMU's upcoming matchup against Akron, highlighting the potential challenges despite Akron's poor record. With bowl eligibility on the line, Helmer and Steiner stress the importance of avoiding complacency. They also reflect on Eastern Michigan's impressive progress, currently holding the best Division I record in Michigan.
The episode teases an interview with former EMU coach Jim Harkema, who shares stories of his historic 1987 bowl win, underscoring the program's growth under Chris Creighton. The hosts wrap up by previewing upcoming basketball and volleyball action, underscoring the exciting trajectory of EMU athletics this season.
Segment 1 - Jim Harkema
Former EMU head football coach and Hall of Famer Jim Harkema sat down with Tom Helmer and Rob Rubick to reflect on his legacy and the current state of the program. Harkema shared his excitement about returning to Ypsilanti, praising the progress made under Coach Chris Creighton and the program's new facilities. "You'd have to screw it up not to succeed with what they've built," Harkema joked, appreciating the advancements since his tenure.
Harkema discussed his strategy for transforming the football program, which won only two games in the three years before his arrival. Success, he explained, came from recruiting talented players, crafting solid game plans, and fostering belief among the team. "They call it 'culture' now," Harkema quipped, "but back then, it was just about getting the players to believe and play like heck."
He shared insights into his recruiting philosophy, noting that EMU gained respect quickly in Ohio, where players could attend on in-state tuition. Recruiting overlooked talent became a key part of his strategy, leading to moments like beating Miami (Ohio) with athletes the RedHawks had passed on.
The conversation naturally turned to EMU's 1987 season, when Harkema's team won the MAC Championship and achieved the program's most successful season to date. He highlighted how that team improved each week, a rare feat in his experience, culminating in a championship and bowl appearance.
Rob Rubick, who played under Harkema at Grand Valley, fondly recalled the coach's fiery demeanor and high-pitched voice that signaled trouble during practices. Harkema praised Rubick's blocking and versatility, which helped him reach the NFL. Rubick credited Harkema for mentally preparing him for professional football.
Reflecting on his visit, Harkema expressed his joy at reconnecting with the EMU community, emphasizing the importance of maintaining ties with alumni. "It's been a special experience," he concluded, grateful to share the weekend with his family and the extended EMU family.
Segment 2 - Chris Creighton
In this week's episode of the Eastern Insider podcast, EMU Head Football Coach Chris Creighton discussed his team's thrilling 38-34 Homecoming win over Central Michigan. Down 18 points in the fourth quarter, the Eagles mounted a remarkable comeback—their largest since 2000—to secure a victory. Creighton praised the team's belief and energy, saying, "Once we got that first stop and started moving the ball, the momentum just snowballed." He highlighted key moments, such as a tipped pass caught by Terry Lockett that sparked the offensive surge.
The Eagles' offense was led by quarterback Austin Smith, who connected with standout receivers Marcus Allen and Terry Lockett. Allen posted a season-best 140 yards, and Lockett's game-changing catches included a crucial double-move touchdown. Creighton emphasized that the team's success hinged on staying resilient despite earlier mistakes and finding their rhythm in the final quarter.
Defensively, Creighton credited the front line for winning the battle at the line of scrimmage. Despite Central Michigan rotating quarterbacks and gaining ground with a mobile QB, the Eagles' defensive pressure played a pivotal role. Creighton also expressed gratitude for the support of EMU fans, noting that the energetic crowd contributed to the team's performance with loud cheers that led to CMU penalties.
Looking ahead, Creighton turned his attention to EMU's upcoming game at Akron. He stressed the importance of maintaining focus, reminding the team of last year's double-overtime battle against the Zips. With Akron steadily improving, Creighton warned that EMU must play at a high level in all phases to secure another win. If the Eagles win, they'll achieve bowl eligibility in record time—something never done in the program's history.
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) -- In Episode 9 of Eastern Insider, hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner kick things off with a lively breakdown of Eastern Michigan's improbable victory over Central Michigan. They delve into the absurd odds—99.6%—that Central Michigan had to win late in the game, only for Eastern to steal the win with grit and composure. Helmer quips about his high school struggles with similar odds, lightening the mood before diving into football analysis.
The hosts discuss how EMU "out-Chippewa-ed the Chippewas," referencing Central's previous come-from-behind victories, and how Eastern returned the favor with a dramatic rally. The spotlight shifts to quarterback Cole Snyder, whose ability to compartmentalize mistakes and stay calm under pressure has earned him a growing fan following. Described as "Clark Kent cool," Snyder's poise—even after a scoop-and-score against him—marks him as a rising star. His dual-threat ability is also emphasized, with Steiner noting how Snyder's running game adds an extra dimension to EMU's offense.
The conversation shifts toward EMU's upcoming matchup against Akron, highlighting the potential challenges despite Akron's poor record. With bowl eligibility on the line, Helmer and Steiner stress the importance of avoiding complacency. They also reflect on Eastern Michigan's impressive progress, currently holding the best Division I record in Michigan.
The episode teases an interview with former EMU coach Jim Harkema, who shares stories of his historic 1987 bowl win, underscoring the program's growth under Chris Creighton. The hosts wrap up by previewing upcoming basketball and volleyball action, underscoring the exciting trajectory of EMU athletics this season.
Segment 1 - Jim Harkema
Former EMU head football coach and Hall of Famer Jim Harkema sat down with Tom Helmer and Rob Rubick to reflect on his legacy and the current state of the program. Harkema shared his excitement about returning to Ypsilanti, praising the progress made under Coach Chris Creighton and the program's new facilities. "You'd have to screw it up not to succeed with what they've built," Harkema joked, appreciating the advancements since his tenure.
Harkema discussed his strategy for transforming the football program, which won only two games in the three years before his arrival. Success, he explained, came from recruiting talented players, crafting solid game plans, and fostering belief among the team. "They call it 'culture' now," Harkema quipped, "but back then, it was just about getting the players to believe and play like heck."
He shared insights into his recruiting philosophy, noting that EMU gained respect quickly in Ohio, where players could attend on in-state tuition. Recruiting overlooked talent became a key part of his strategy, leading to moments like beating Miami (Ohio) with athletes the RedHawks had passed on.
The conversation naturally turned to EMU's 1987 season, when Harkema's team won the MAC Championship and achieved the program's most successful season to date. He highlighted how that team improved each week, a rare feat in his experience, culminating in a championship and bowl appearance.
Rob Rubick, who played under Harkema at Grand Valley, fondly recalled the coach's fiery demeanor and high-pitched voice that signaled trouble during practices. Harkema praised Rubick's blocking and versatility, which helped him reach the NFL. Rubick credited Harkema for mentally preparing him for professional football.
Reflecting on his visit, Harkema expressed his joy at reconnecting with the EMU community, emphasizing the importance of maintaining ties with alumni. "It's been a special experience," he concluded, grateful to share the weekend with his family and the extended EMU family.
Segment 2 - Chris Creighton
In this week's episode of the Eastern Insider podcast, EMU Head Football Coach Chris Creighton discussed his team's thrilling 38-34 Homecoming win over Central Michigan. Down 18 points in the fourth quarter, the Eagles mounted a remarkable comeback—their largest since 2000—to secure a victory. Creighton praised the team's belief and energy, saying, "Once we got that first stop and started moving the ball, the momentum just snowballed." He highlighted key moments, such as a tipped pass caught by Terry Lockett that sparked the offensive surge.
The Eagles' offense was led by quarterback Austin Smith, who connected with standout receivers Marcus Allen and Terry Lockett. Allen posted a season-best 140 yards, and Lockett's game-changing catches included a crucial double-move touchdown. Creighton emphasized that the team's success hinged on staying resilient despite earlier mistakes and finding their rhythm in the final quarter.
Defensively, Creighton credited the front line for winning the battle at the line of scrimmage. Despite Central Michigan rotating quarterbacks and gaining ground with a mobile QB, the Eagles' defensive pressure played a pivotal role. Creighton also expressed gratitude for the support of EMU fans, noting that the energetic crowd contributed to the team's performance with loud cheers that led to CMU penalties.
Looking ahead, Creighton turned his attention to EMU's upcoming game at Akron. He stressed the importance of maintaining focus, reminding the team of last year's double-overtime battle against the Zips. With Akron steadily improving, Creighton warned that EMU must play at a high level in all phases to secure another win. If the Eagles win, they'll achieve bowl eligibility in record time—something never done in the program's history.
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