While the Eastern Illinois University football team did not find the success we hoped for this season, our defense had some excellent performances on the year and the statistics backed up this improvement from the 2018 defensive struggles.

Eastern Illinois was the third most improved defensive team in the country (based on statistical rank changes from the 2018 regular season to the 2019 regular season)
and was one of just three teams in the nation to improve in all 12 major defensive categories. Statistical highlights included:
  • 30th in the nation in total defense
  • 44th in the nation in rushing defense
  • 40th in the nation in passing defense
  • 29th in the nation in tackles for loss per game
  • 29th in the nation in fumbles recovered
  • 47th in the nation in interceptions
  • 29th in the nation in first downs allowed​
Additionally, our defense produced several postseason award selections.​
f
All Ohio-Valley Conference
Nose tackle Terrell Greer - Second Team Defense
Linebacker Dytarious Johnson - Second Team Defense
Linebacker Jason Johnson - All Newcomer Team
f
Freshman All American
Linebacker Jason Johnson - Second Team
Cornerback J.J. Ross - Third Team