CHENEY, Wash. — Myles Mayovsky, a redshirt junior linebacker for Eastern Washington, has quickly evolved from a special teams player to an influential leader on the Eagles’ defense. With the team’s focus now on reclaiming the coveted Che-Scow Cup against Idaho, Mayovsky comes off an impressive performance where he recorded a career-best 11 total tackles in a previous victory over Portland State.
Despite entering this week off a bye, Mayovsky emphasized that the team remained dedicated and worked diligently during the break. “It was a lot more fun, but it wasn’t just a bye week,” he remarked. “We were working our tails off out there still, but it was a good week.”
In his first year as the starting middle linebacker, Mayovsky has made an impressive impact, ranking second on the team with 40 total tackles, including 22 solo tackles and leading with 18 assisted tackles, along with three pass breakups. Transitioning from special teams last season presented him with significant responsibilities—one he has embraced wholeheartedly.
“For the middle linebacker in our defense, we’re basically the quarterbacks of the defense,” he explained. The communication and mental acuity needed for the position are vital, and Mayovsky notes it took him time to fully grasp the intricacies of his new role.
The Eagles’ defense features a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, contributing to its overall development. Mayovsky credits his growth to leaning on veteran teammates, creating a collaborative environment within the unit.
“Since I didn’t even play a lot last year, it’s just leaning on the older guys like [Isaiah Perez] and Jaden Radke — he’s young but has played a lot — and Tylin Jackson,” he said. “Leaning on each other has been the biggest thing for us.”
With both of Eastern’s victories this season occurring at home, Mayovsky expressed a unique pride in winning at The Inferno. “It feels different for sure, especially winning on the red,” he noted. “Protecting the red is always huge for us.”
Growing up in the Tri-Cities, Mayovsky has always been aware of the rivalry between Eastern and Idaho, a competition that reignited when the Vandals returned to the Big Sky Conference. Having watched closely as a high school student, he understands the significance of the game. “I know it’s a huge rival game, and we’re freakin’ excited to go,” he said.
As for the upcoming matchup against Idaho, the Eagles are prepared for the challenge, particularly with the uncertainty surrounding the Vandals’ quarterback situation. Mayovsky credits his practice partner, quarterback Nate Bell, for helping the defense stay sharp. “Nate’s a great athlete,” he remarked, acknowledging Bell’s speed and agility.
Idaho has dominated their recent meetings, winning the last three encounters. Mayovsky and his teammates are determined to alter this trend. “It would be huge because we need to get that cup back, too,” he stated. The Eagles will host the Vandals at 4 p.m. on Saturday at Roos Field in Cheney, with the game broadcast live on SWX and streamed on SWXLocalSports.com, creating an exciting atmosphere as the team aims to reclaim ownership of the Che-Scow Cup.