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The Eastern Echo Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026 | Print Archive
The Eastern Echo

Sports-Features

Ford Field

Motor City MACtion: Eagles set to trade The Factory for Ford Field

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Eastern Michigan University and Central Michigan University have moved their historic Mid-American Conference rivalry to Ford Field for the 2026 and 2027 seasons, transforming a century-old matchup into a marquee Motor City MACtion event. By shifting the series to an NFL venue in Detroit, both programs aim to elevate the rivalry, reconnect with alumni and spotlight the MAC on a major stage.












Brian Dooley Panthers.JPG

EMU football alums Gunnar Oakes, Brian Dooley find pro success with UFL’s Michigan Panthers

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Going to high school just 10 minutes apart from each other, it seemed to be destiny that Brian Dooley's and Gunnar Oakes’ paths would cross at some point. The two high school football standouts saw this happen at Eastern Michigan University, where they both suited up for the Eagles between 2018-22. Now, just a few short years later, they have reunited to play for Michigan’s United Football League team, the Panthers. 


Josh talks to acclaimed 89.1 WEMU host, Michael Jewett, about when a passion becomes a career,  what jazz has meant for the world and what it could mean for its future.