In one of the most thrilling comebacks in Eastern Michigan University football history, senior quarterback Cole Snyder led the Eagles back from an 18-point deficit in the fourth quarter, clinching a victory that will be remembered as a career highlight.
Snyder, who transferred to EMU this season from the University at Buffalo, showed exceptional leadership and resilience under pressure, rallying his team and captivating the EMU homecoming crowd.
Reflecting on the rally, Snyder praised his teammates’ tenacity.
“You never want to be in that situation,” Snyder said. “But to see the guys respond and keep battling was a great testament to what kind of team we have.”
Snyder credited Head Coach Chris Creighton, emphasizing Creighton’s unique approach to building a football team and a brotherhood.
"It's not just about lifting weights and showing up to practice,” Snyder said. “Coach Creighton does so many things to bring us together… When it comes down to the fourth quarter, and we need the guys to stay together, we need to keep fighting. I think we go back to those things, and to see us stick together and play the way that we did for four quarters is just something that I'm just so proud of."
Coach Creighton was equally complimentary of Snyder’s performance, describing how he stayed calm despite a challenging third quarter where the offense struggled for rhythm.
"The interception early did not rattle him at all,” Creighton said. "Wasn't going well. And he then had the ability to, you know, just to flush that and to play free again.”
Creighton highlighted Snyder’s mental resilience and leadership.
"He was a no-brainer that we were going to go forward on fourth and down, and I love having the ball in his hands,” Creighton said.
Throughout the game, Snyder faced intense defensive pressure, including a fumble that resulted in an 80-yard touchdown.
"[It] kind of revealed my process a little bit, and I got to be better at practice during the week, got to focus on the right things, and I'll do that going forward," Snyder said. "But a lot of it started with me. So I got to be better, and we will be better going forward."
He responded by leading the offense to multiple scoring drives with a crucial fourth-quarter pass to receiver Terry Lockett Jr. after a pump fake that showcased the chemistry he’s built with his receivers.
Wide receiver Marcus Allen also stood out, with Snyder applauding the recent transfer’s performance. Despite a missed opportunity that could have added another 250 yards to Allen’s game stats, Snyder joked about it, showing his confidence in Allen’s potential.
“He came in with just such a humble and grateful attitude… to see guys like Marcus and Terry step up is awesome," Snyder said.
The game saw significant contributions from Delbert Mimms lll, another graduate transfer, whose presence Snyder praised as a vital force. With over 50 new transfers this season, Snyder believes these players’ diverse experiences have strengthened EMU football.
After sealing the comeback, Snyder celebrated with a gesture inspired by "Gladiator." When asked about the celebration, he laughed, admitting he recently watched the movie and thought the moment was fitting.
Snyder credited EMU fans and alumni in Rynearson Stadium.
"I think that had a lot to do with us being able to stick together and persevere through a lot of the adversity.”
For Snyder, this comeback was about more than just winning — it was a testament to the team’s bond and the support of Eagle Nation.
“I mean, just personal highlights. This has got to be number one,” Snyder said. “It's just awesome to play these kinds of games. And you know that those are the type of games you want to play in.”
Eastern will return today as the Eagles head to Akron, Ohio, to take on the University of Akron. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. and will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
