Eastern Michigan Football Shines at 2024 MAC Football Kickoff

CANTON, Ohio (EMUEagles.com) -- Against the backdrop of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Mid-American Conference hosted its annual football kickoff event, July 18-19, bringing together coaches and players from its 12-member institutions. This year's media day offered an exciting glimpse into the 2024 season, with Eastern Michigan University represented by 11th-year Head Coach Chris Creighton, tight end Jere Getzinger (West Branch, Mich./Ogemaw Heights), and defensive lineman Justin Jefferson (Chicago, Ill./Brother Rice).

The event began with a tour of the Hall of Fame, a first for Getzinger and Jefferson, who were visibly inspired by the sport's rich history and celebrated figures. The trio then headed to an evening event at the Brew Kettle & TopGolf Swing Suites, mingling with fellow MAC athletes and coaches. The players also heard from MAC Commissioner Dr. Jon Steinbrecher along with College Football Playoff Executive Director Rich Clark on how football has impacted their lives.

After a restful night, EMU's representatives embarked on a rigorous media day schedule. They participated in multiple interviews and segments, including sessions with Cleveland.com/MLive.com and numerous reporters. A highlight for the team was getting hands-on with the newly released EA Sports College Football 25 game, which added a fun, interactive element to the day. Jefferson's Eagles squad edged Getzinger's, 16-7, with Creighton watching on.

For Creighton, this was his second time attending the MAC Media Day at the Hall of Fame. His tenure at EMU has been marked by significant achievements, including six bowl game appearances since 2016, tying for the most in the conference.

High Hopes and New Faces for the 2024 Season
Eastern Michigan was predicted to finish sixth in the MAC preseason coaches poll, receiving 64 points. Miami was selected to finish first with 119 points, followed by Toledo (109), Bowling Green (92), Northern Illinois (92), and Ohio (81). Despite the middle-of-the-pack projection, the Eagles are optimistic, buoyed by their recent success and a revamped roster.

Justin Jefferson: A Defensive Powerhouse
Jefferson returns as a cornerstone of the Eagles' defense. Last season, Jefferson demonstrated his disruptive presence on the field, tying for the team lead with 7.5 tackles for loss (TFLs) and securing third place with 3.5 sacks. His standout performance against Akron, where he notched a career-high 2.0 TFLs, was a season highlight. Jefferson's consistency was key, tallying at least 0.5 TFLs in eight games and 0.5 sacks in four contests. His defensive prowess included 32 total tackles, 14 solo, two pass breakups, 11 quarterback hurries, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble, and an impressive ranking of 19th in the NCAA FBS for fumble recoveries.

Jere Getzinger: A Reliable Offensive Weapon
Getzinger, who earned his degree in April 2024, has been a model of consistency both on and off the field. In 2023, he played in all 13 games, starting 10, and recorded 16 receptions for 88 yards and one touchdown. His first collegiate touchdown was a memorable game-winner in double overtime against Akron. Notably, Getzinger opened the season with a career-high four receptions for 27 yards against Howard and recorded at least one reception in 10 of the 13 games. His efforts were recognized with College Sports Communicators Academic All-District and Academic All-MAC honors.

Anticipation Builds for Training Camp
The Eagles will report for training camp on Monday, July 30, with the first practice scheduled for Tuesday, July 31. This year marks the 133rd for EMU football and the 49th season in the MAC. The 2024 roster features significant changes, with 53 new student-athletes joining the team, 28 of them via the transfer portal.

New Conference Schedule Format
The 2024 season introduces a new conference schedule format, ensuring each team faces all 11 conference opponents at least once every three years. The new model includes protected rivalries and eliminates the MAC East and West Divisions. The season kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 29, and culminates with the 28th MAC Football Championship game on Saturday, Dec. 7, at Ford Field in Detroit, Mich.

The Long Road to Success
When Creighton arrived in Ypsilanti in 2014, the Eagles had not enjoyed a winning season since 1995. Fast forward to today, and the narrative has dramatically changed. Under Creighton's leadership, the Eagles have achieved significant milestones, including multiple bowl appearances and a more consistent presence in the upper echelons of the MAC standings. Reflecting on his tenure, Creighton said, "From the very beginning, we set out to hire and recruit great people—expert coaches and super talented and passionate players—who wanted to be at Eastern Michigan to do something the world said isn't possible."

The Quarterback Battle
One of the critical areas for improvement identified by Creighton was the quarterback position. This season, the Eagles welcome Cole Snyder (Lakewood, N.Y./Southwestern/Rutgers/Buffalo), a familiar name in the MAC, who transferred to Eastern Michigan to bolster the team's offensive capabilities. "Cole is a known commodity. Going back to 2022, he had a great day against us and took us to the woodshed," Creighton recalled. Snyder's leadership and experience are expected to be invaluable as the Eagles aim to maintain their competitive edge.

Building on a Solid Foundation
The departure of key offensive players like Samson Evans, Jaylon Jackson, and Austin Smith has left some big shoes to fill. However, Creighton remains optimistic. "It really starts with the offensive line," he emphasized. Despite the loss of experienced players, the coach is confident in the new talent that has joined the team, highlighting the depth and readiness of the incoming athletes. Eastern Michigan's running game, a hallmark of their recent success, will be a focal point once again.

The Crosby Legacy
A significant point of pride for Creighton and the Eagles is the contribution of NFL star Maxx Crosby. The former Eastern Michigan standout recently made a substantial donation to the program, resulting in the naming of Crosby Field. "Max and his wife, Rachel, decided together to help us in that way. It's amazing," Creighton said.

Eyes on the Prize
Despite the progress and achievements, there's one milestone that has eluded the Eagles—a MAC championship. Creighton acknowledges this as the next big goal for the team. "We've beaten everybody in the league. We've won a bowl game. We have guys go to the National Football League, but we have not won a MAC championship," he stated. This pursuit of the conference title remains a driving force for the Eagles as they prepare for the 2024 season.

Navigating the New MAC Landscape
The upcoming changes to the MAC schedule, including the shift to a pod system, present new challenges and opportunities. Creighton believes that maintaining in-state rivalries, particularly with other Michigan-based MAC teams, is beneficial. However, he anticipates that the real impact of the new scheduling format will become evident as the season progresses and the race for the top two spots intensifies.

Recruiting the Right Fit
With over a decade at Eastern Michigan, Creighton has a clear vision of the type of players he wants to recruit. "Our culture is super strong. There is a feel to our program. It's undeniable. That's not for everybody, but that's okay," he said.

Looking Ahead
As the 2024 season approaches, there's a palpable sense of excitement and determination within the Eastern Michigan camp. The transformation under Chris Creighton has been remarkable, and the journey is far from over. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, the Eagles are poised to continue their ascent, with the elusive MAC championship squarely in their sights. In the words of Creighton, "We know who we are. There's no question about that. And guys who fit us are out there. It's just up to us to find them and for them to meet our guys and to be around. That's when the magic happens." The magic, it seems, is just beginning for Eastern Michigan.

Home Field Advantage and Fan Engagement
EMU will play five of its six home games within an eight-week span, giving fans ample opportunities to catch the action live. Exclusive season ticket packages are available, offering perks such as VIP seating, parking privileges, and more. The ultimate fan experience includes new and improved chairback seats with increased leg room on the 50-yard line, VIP parking, and a piece of turf from "The Factory" with an official certificate of authenticity.

Ticket Information
- Ultimate Fan Season Tickets: $180 for chairback seats on the 50-yard line, with VIP parking.
- Reserved Season Tickets: $120.
- General Admission Season Tickets: $108.
- Faculty, Staff, and Young Alumni Season Tickets: $84.
- E-Club Membership: $200, includes season tickets for football, men's basketball, and women's basketball games.
- Alumni Season Value Pack: $240 for four tickets per game.
- VIP Parking: $60 at the George Gervin GameAbove Center parking lot.

For more information or to purchase tickets, fans can contact the Eastern Athletics Ticket Office at 734.487.3669.

Eastern Michigan Athletics

Eastern Michigan Football Shines at 2024 MAC Football Kickoff

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Samson Evans

Jere Getzinger

Jaylon Jackson

Justin Jefferson

Austin Smith

Cole Snyder

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