RICHMOND, Ky. - Eastern Kentucky University closed its 1999 season with a 7-4 overall record after Saturday's disappointing 20-14 loss to Eastern Illinois University. The loss dropped Eastern into a three-way tie for third place in the Ohio Valley Conference standings with a 4-3 record and out of any possible I-AA playoff consideration.

"We knew going in that we were playing with three freshmen back there in the secondary and that they might try to pick on us a little bit," said Kidd. "But the thing that I don't understand or can't explain is the fact that we couldn't move the ball on offense.

"Nothing seemed to click all day over on that side of the ball. Our receivers were dropping passes, our best runners seemed a step slow and our offensive line had trouble blocking them. With all that was on the line, I was surprised by our effort against Eastern Illinois."

Despite the loss, Kidd was happy with his team's chemistry and work ethic over the entire year, going back into spring practice and the winter conditioning program.

"I've said all along that I like this team's attitude and I still do. We were a team this year and not a bunch of individuals," said Kidd. "I'm hoping that our players returning will pick right up where this team left off and show some leadership to our younger guys for next year's team."

EKU placed nine players on the two All-OVC teams and honorable mention all-conference units. First-team selections for Eastern included senior defensive tackle Terry Thomas and senior offensive guard Josh Hunter.

Second-team All-OVC recognition went to junior tailback Corey Crume, junior offensive tackle Lewis Diaz, senior tight end Anthony Watson, junior placekicker Jason Martin, senior defensive tackle Jason Muchow and senior roverback Scooter Asel. Senior tailback Derick Logan received honorable mention All-OVC notice.

"You know, you look at our season and realize that we fought through an injury to our defensive leader in Scooter Asel and to one of our better offensive players in Waylon Chapman and still were playing for a playoff bid that last game. I think you've got to take your hat off to our coaching staff and players for a great year," said Kidd who is wrapping up his 36^th season as head coach of the Colonels.