Northwest Wayne News

The Wayne State University football team is set to begin its 2024 season with a Thursday, September 5 contest at Tiffin University. This will mark the 12th all-time meeting between the Warriors and the Dragons, and their first encounter since 2018.

Under second-year head coach Tyrone Wheatley, the Warriors aim to improve on last season's 3-8 record. In 2023, WSU secured victories against Missouri S&T, Michigan Tech, and Northern Michigan. This upcoming game at Tiffin marks the third consecutive year that WSU has started its season on the road.

Tiffin University concluded another successful campaign in 2023 with an impressive 11-1 record, only falling to Slippery Rock in the second round of the NCAA Playoffs. The Dragons are now led by first-year head coach Brett Ekkens, who previously served as offensive coordinator and offensive line coach at Saginaw Valley State.

Redshirt junior quarterback Keegan Ray is expected to take over as full-time starter after splitting time last season with graduate senior Kason Martin. In 2023, Ray completed 76-of-115 passes for 1,064 yards with eight touchdowns and two interceptions. Junior running back Ronald Blackman returns following a notable season where he rushed for 790 yards and seven touchdowns. Senior receiver Jalen Thomas also returns after accumulating 1,390 receiving yards in his career thus far.

Wayne State holds a historical advantage over Tiffin with a lead of 7-4 in their all-time series; however, Tiffin has won four of the last five meetings including their most recent matchup in 2018.

The GLIAC Preseason Coaches' Poll ranks Wayne State sixth among eight teams. Ferris State tops the poll followed by Grand Valley State and Davenport.

Wayne State's offensive line will feature experienced players such as redshirt junior Aidan Tweedy and redshirt senior Charles Wesley. Tweedy was named Second Team All-GLIAC in 2023 while Wesley earned Honorable Mention All-GLIAC recognition.

In addition to challenging opponents like Ferris State (No.3), Grand Valley State (No.4), and Indianapolis (No.16) on their schedule this fall, Wayne State faces three conference champions from last year: Indianapolis (GLVC), Ferris State (GLIAC), and Findlay (G-MAC).

For fans wanting to follow every game live, broadcasts will be available on WDTK - The Patriot (1400 AM /101.5 FM) or online at PatriotDetroit.com featuring veteran broadcaster Sean Baligian along with various analysts throughout the season.

All six home games plus road GLIAC contests will be streamed on FloSports with radio announcers simulcasting on FloSports for home games.