PORTALES, N.M. – Thursday night football? Yep! You read that right. Eastern New Mexico football is traveling to face Lincoln (Mo.) in a nonconference matchup set for Thursday night at 6 p.m. MT. This will be the program's first time facing the Blue Tigers. Before the Greyhounds kickoff versus LU, please take a look at the 4th & 1:

First Down – Freshmen Carry: Two ENMU freshmen held their ground in a 35-14 defeat to Texas A&M-Kingsville last week. Elijah Zeh went 22 carries for 114 yards and a score and his teammate Robert Nora had seven rushes for 80 yards and a 56-yard score. Nora has began finding more time on the offensive side of the ball over the last two matches. Zeh continues to lead the team rushing and is looking to continue keeping his name near the top of the rushing leaders in the Lone Star Conference.

Second Down – Challenges Ahead: Lincoln (Mo.) comes into this game hungry for their first win since 2019 when they beat Northeastern State. Head coach Jermaine Gates is 0-19 with the Blue Tigers. LU has not scored more than 20 points in a single game this season and the closest margin of defeat is 14 points with Washburn earning a 24-10 result over Lincoln in September. The home side is also having difficulties with turnovers (21), yards allowed (516.0), and scoring defense (53.5).

Third Down – Finish Strong: Three games remain in the 2023 football season and a strong finish will give ENMU a record above .500. The game in Jefferson City, Mo. will be the first test in the trio of contests. Kelley Lee coached teams have won seven straight nonconference games. With wins over New Mexico Highlands and Sul Ross State, Eastern will have a shot to go unbeaten in nonconference action for a second year in Lee's tenure.

Fourth Down – Notable Stats: ENMU is one of the strongest teams in the conference in various categories. They are second in turnovers lost (10), passing yards allowed (138.6), fewest penalty yards per game (51), third down conversion (45%), and completion percentage (60.2%). Robert Nora is one of three players with a kickoff returned for a touchdown in the LSC. Andre Jones is second in the conference with five receiving touchdowns and fourth with 424 receiving yards. Mario Sanchez is third with seven total rushing touchdowns in 2023.

&1 – In The Game: Fans can watch the game on the MIAA Network for a cost. The game will be carried for free on KSELF Country 105.9 FM. Dr. Donald "Doc" Elder will be on the call live from Jefferson City, Mo. Live stats will be covered by the Lincoln (Mo.) sports information department. Tickets to the game can be bought online. LU will be celebrating Navy Night during the game.