Did EKU Make the Playoffs? A Deep Dive into Eastern Kentucky Football
As an expert in home improvements and renovations, I know that having the right tools, skills, and game plan are key to a successful project. The same goes for building a championship football program. For Eastern Kentucky University, constructing a team that can compete for FCS national titles takes strong leadership, talent, and the resources to execute the vision.
After taking a deeper look at EKU‘s football history, conference alignment, and future direction, it‘s clear they are gathering the necessary pieces for future success, even if they fell short of the playoffs in 2020. Let‘s dive into the details and see how the Colonels are positioning themselves to become a playoff contender.
Steady Progress in Recent Seasons
friend, as a fellow football fan, I‘m excited to see the growth EKU football has shown in the past few years under head coach Walt Wells! He took over the program in 2016 and has led the Colonels to four straight winning seasons from 2018-2021. Here are some of the key signs of progress:
- 26-22 overall record under Wells – the stability he‘s provided is paying off
- Back-to-back 7-win seasons in 2018 and 2019, including a first round FCS playoff appearance in 2019
- 5 All-American and 19 All-OVC players over Wells‘ tenure
- Standouts like QB Parker McKinney, DB T.J. James, and DL Austin English emerging as team leaders
- Notable wins over quality regional opponents like Western Kentucky and Marshall
The upward trajectory is clear – EKU has the coaching and talent to become a consistent contender. With Wells at the helm, I‘m confident the winning culture he‘s built will continue.
Upgrading the Program through Conference Realignment
One of the keys to renovating a home is ensuring you have the right materials to work with. For EKU football, switching conferences provides better resources to support their vision.
In July 2020, Eastern Kentucky announced the Colonels would move from the Ohio Valley Conference to the ASUN Conference. This change took effect July 1, 2021 and includes all EKU varsity sports teams.
Here‘s why this upgrade will benefit the football program:
- New financial resources from the ASUN to improve facilities, recruiting, etc.
- Chance to expand their footprint and recognition
- Increased opportunities for FCS playoff bids and titles
- Geographically, a better fit with members spread across the Southeast
The ASUN offers a stronger foundation for EKU football to build upon. Joining a conference with ambitious peers will only accelerate their growth. Expect them to compete for conference crowns right away!
Fierce Regional Rivalries
Rivalries make football even more fun to watch. Eastern Kentucky has cultivated their share of fierce regional showdowns over the decades:
- Western Kentucky – Always a huge game, EKU upset them in 2019
- Louisville, Kentucky – More known for basketball matchups but still in-state pride on the line
- Austin Peay, Jacksonville State, Tennessee Tech – Long-time OVC opponents, very competitive history
Now with the ASUN move, new rivalries will emerge. Based on geography and program strength, Kennesaw State and Central Arkansas seem poised to become EKU‘s biggest conference foes.
Wherever they play, you can bet Colonel fans will show up loud and proud!
The Future Looks Bright
Friend, if I‘ve learned one thing from home remodels, it‘s that real change takes time and commitment. EKU football is putting in the work to build a championship program.
They have an experienced coach, talented roster, increased resources, and competitive conference to grow in. While they missed the playoffs in 2020, the Colonels are knocking on the door.
My prediction – with their upward trajectory, it‘s only a matter of time before EKU breaks through. I‘d bet on seeing them in the FCS playoff mix regularly in the next 5 years, if not sooner.
They say the joy is in the journey. For this passionate fanbase, the road to success will be exciting to watch. Go Colonels!