Backup quarterback shines for EWU

CHENEY — Sophomore quarterback Gunner Talkington led the Eastern Washington University offensive units to a quick start, but the defense took over from there as the Eagle football team concluded its first two weeks of preseason practices with an 85-play scrimmage Saturday at Roos Field.

The offense had 425 yards of offense, including 307 through the air. Talkington completed 7 of 14 passes for 154 yards, hitting Dre’ Sonte Dorton for an 83-yard catch-and-run touchdown pass, as well as leading another eight-play, 79-yard drive. He also added 31 yards rushing as the offensive units scored three touchdowns in the first six possessions of the scrimmage, despite starting quarterback and Walter Payton Award candidate Eric Barriere sitting out.

The defense took over after that, and held the offense to a pair of field goals in the final 13 possessions. But those field goals were impressive kicks of 45 and 43 yards by junior Andre Slyter. The defense finished the day with four turnovers forced — two on fumbles and a pair on interceptions by Anthany Smith and Demetrius Crosby Jr.

Eastern’s running game was productive throughout the scrimmage, with Dennis Merritt leading the way with 49 yards on seven carries and a 10-yard touchdown run, to go along with three catches for another 25 yards. Micah Smith rushed for 30 yards on 12 carries, and starter Antoine Custer Jr. had 27 on just five rushes. The running backs alone averaged 4.2 yards per carry.

The Eagles open at Washington on Aug. 31.