The Mid-American Conference recently hosted its annual football kickoff at the Pro Football Hall of Fame on July 18-19, bringing together coaches and players from its 12 institutions. Eastern Michigan University's Head Coach, Chris Creighton, tight end Jere Getzinger, and defensive lineman Justin Jefferson represented the conference.
The event began with a tour of the Hall of Fame, a first-time experience for both Getzinger and Jefferson. The tour inspired the players as they explored the history and celebrated football figures. Later, the trio attended an evening gathering at Brew Kettle & TopGolf Swing Suites, mingling with fellow MAC athletes and coaches and listening to speeches from MAC Commissioner Dr. Jon Steinbrecher and College Football Playoff Executive Director Rich Clark about the impact of football on their lives.
EMU’s representatives embarked on a packed media schedule the following day, interviewing Cleveland.com/MLive.com and other reporters. A highlight was trying out the newly released EA Sports College Football 25 game, where Jefferson's virtual team defeated Getzinger's, 16-7, with Creighton watching.
Eastern Michigan was predicted to finish sixth in the MAC preseason coaches poll, receiving 64 points. Despite this middle-of-the-pack projection, the Eagles remain optimistic due to their recent success and a revamped roster.
The Eagles will report for training camp on Monday, July 30, with the first practice on Tuesday, July 31. This marks the 133rd season for EMU football and the 49th in the MAC. The 2024 roster features 53 new student-athletes, 28 of whom joined via the transfer portal.
This season introduces a new MAC schedule format, ensuring each team faces all 11 conference opponents at least once every three years. The latest model includes protected rivalries and eliminates the MAC East and West Divisions. The season kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 29, and ends with the 28th MAC Football Championship game on Saturday, Dec. 7, at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan.
Under Coach Creighton, attending his second MAC Media Day at the Hall of Fame, EMU has seen significant achievements, including six bowl game appearances since 2016, tying for the most in the conference. Reflecting on his tenure, Creighton said in an interview with ESPN+, "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."
One critical area for improvement identified by Creighton was the quarterback position. This season, the Eagles welcome Cole Snyder, a familiar MAC name who transferred to EMU 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.
Despite the departure of key offensive players like Samson Evans, Jaylon Jackson, and Austin Smith, Creighton remains optimistic about the new talent joining the team. "It really starts with the offensive line," he emphasized. The coach is confident in the recruits, highlighting the depth and readiness of the incoming athletes.
Despite their progress, one milestone has eluded the Eagles—a MAC championship. Creighton acknowledges this as the team's next big goal. "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. Pursuing the conference title remains a driving force for the Eagles as they prepare for the 2024 season.
The upcoming changes to the MAC schedule, including the shift to a pod system, present new challenges and opportunities. Creighton believes 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.
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.
As the 2024 season approaches, there is 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 sight. "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," Creighton remarked.
EMU will play five of its six home games within eight weeks, allowing fans to catch the action live. Exclusive season ticket packages offer VIP seating, parking privileges, and more. The ultimate fan experience includes new and improved chairback seats with increased legroom on the 50-yard line, VIP parking, and a piece of turf from "The Factory" with an official certificate of authenticity.
EMU is offering various season ticket packages to accommodate fans: 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.
With anticipation building for the 2024 season, the Eastern Michigan Eagles are ready to take on new challenges and strive for greatness under Coach Creighton's leadership.
