The Western Michigan Broncos will have the chance to secure a spot in the MAC Championship Game if they emerge victorious against the Eastern Michigan Eagles at Rynearson Stadium on Tuesday night. The game is set to kick off at 7:30 PM ET and will be broadcast on ESPN2.
Currently, the Broncos lead the all-time series against the Eagles with a record of 36 wins, 22 losses, and 2 ties. In their last encounter, which took place on November 30, 2024, Western Michigan triumphed over Eastern Michigan with a score of 26 to 18.
Game Significance
For Western Michigan, this game is crucial as they stand at 7-4 overall and 6-1 in MAC play. A win would not only guarantee their place in the MAC Championship for the first time since 2016 but also secure the Michigan MAC Trophy. On the other hand, Eastern Michigan, with a record of 4-7 and 3-4 in the conference, is unable to qualify for a bowl game but has the opportunity to play spoiler on senior day.
Western Michigan”s Strengths
The Broncos have rebounded impressively from an 0-3 start, having won seven of their last eight games. Their success can be largely attributed to a resurgent ground game, which saw them achieve their highest rushing output since 2019 in their most recent game against Northern Illinois. In that contest, they became the first team in eight years to have three players rush for over 100 yards in a single game: running backs Jalen Buckley and Devin Miles, along with quarterback Broc Lowry.
Lowry, who is also the team”s leading rusher, has been instrumental in the Broncos” offensive strategy. He has been consistently producing at least 80 rushing yards per game over the last six games and ranks second in the MAC with 12 rushing touchdowns. Buckley, a former 1,000-yard rusher, has shown improved performance recently and will face a favorable matchup against Eastern Michigan”s struggling run defense.
Defensive Prowess
Defensively, Western Michigan has excelled under first-year coordinator Chris O”Leary, ranking 17th nationally in scoring defense by allowing just 18.5 points per game. The Broncos have a formidable pass defense, ranking eighth in the FBS by allowing only 162 yards per game. Star defensive end Nadame Tucker leads the MAC in sacks and tackles for loss, contributing significantly to the team”s defensive success.
Eastern Michigan”s Challenges
In contrast, Eastern Michigan is facing a challenging season, currently sitting at 4-7, which marks their third consecutive losing season under coach Chris Creighton. Despite their struggles, the Eagles have shown potential with a two-game winning streak heading into this matchup. Quarterback Noah Kim has been a standout performer, leading the MAC in passing yards, and has showcased the ability to connect with various receivers, even after losing top target Terry Lockett Jr. to injury.
On the ground, senior Dontae McMillan is closing in on a 1,000-yard season, needing just 97 yards against the Broncos to achieve that milestone. However, Eastern Michigan”s defense has struggled throughout the season, particularly in containing the run, which could pose significant problems against Western Michigan”s offensive attack.
Prediction for the Game
Given the advantages in rushing offense and defensive capabilities, Western Michigan is poised to secure a solid victory. The Broncos” ability to dominate on the ground, coupled with their defensive pressure, could lead them to a comfortable win. Expect Western Michigan to clinch a spot in the MAC Championship Game, winning by a margin of at least two touchdowns. A predicted score is Western Michigan 28, Eastern Michigan 13.
