EMPORIA (KSNT) – One of the longest active DII rivalries hits the gridiron this Saturday.
No. 15 Emporia State (8-1, 6-1) will host in-state rival Washburn (6-2-1, 5-2) for the 122nd edition of the Turnpike Tussle. This rivalry games means a lot to both programs, but this year the stakes are higher with both teams eyeing a spot in the playoffs.
“There’s a lot on the table. You know, there’s playoffs, there’s MIAA Conference Championship. There’s all those things, you know, the the turnpike trophy,” Emporia State head coach Garin Higgins told 27 Sports. “I mean, there’s a lot on the line. So, yeah, I think when you look at the overall picture and the dynamics of both teams this year, it’s definitely different and it feels different from last year.”
Part of the reason this matchup is different this season is because both teams are playing at higher level this season.
Washburn blanks Emporia State in MIAA semifinals, advances to championship
Looking at the Ichabods, Washburn just had two wins heading into last year’s Turnpike Tussle game. Now, they are riding a two-game win streak and secured their first winning season since 2022.
“We are just a better team than we were last year,” Washburn head coach Zach Watkins told 27 Sports. “You know, I think they obviously are too, with their record and how they have won games.”
For the Hornets they have dominated this rivalry in the last decade, winning nine out of the last 10 games. The history and importance of this game isn’t lost on either team.
“I feel like it’s kind of known just what’s on the plate this week,” Emporia State junior offensive lineman Jacob Carver told 27 Sports. “So, it’s just next game and it’s a big game, so just keep advancing and keep working towards the goal.”
“You’re kind of fighting for something with it being an actual rivalry Turnpike Tussle trophy and everything,” Washburn senior wide receiver Nathan Lewis Jr. said. “With the tradition of it, it’s light we are carrying on and fighting for the tradition of it.”
Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at Welch Stadium on Nov. 7.
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