Falcons Gear Up for Exciting Family Weekend Showdown Against Central Michigan

Bowling Green State University (BGSU) is set to welcome Central Michigan to Doyt L. Perry Stadium for the first time since 2019. This anticipated matchup will occur during Bowling Green’s Family Weekend. Fans can catch the live call on Falcon Radio via bgfalconmedia.com, with Tyler Kavalecz and Carter Leonard hosting. Pre-game coverage begins at 11:35 a.m., led by Nate Hinners, Adam Duffin, and Gavin Gill.

Falcons Prepared for Central Michigan Clash

This meeting marks the 45th matchup between the Falcons and the Chippewas, with BGSU leading the series 25-19 since 1924. Bowling Green has shown dominance, winning four of the last five meetings. However, Central Michigan claimed victory in the last showdown at the Doyt, winning 38-20 in 2019.

Bowling Green’s Recent Form

BGSU holds a 3-3 overall record and shares fourth place in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) standings with a 1-1 conference record. Their recent triumph was a 28-23 victory over Toledo, marking their biggest win of the season. Head Coach Eddie George highlighted the significance of this rivalry, emphasizing the need to maintain their winning momentum.

The Falcons staged a historic comeback against Toledo, overcoming a 21-point deficit. The team’s offensive uncertainty lies in the quarterback position, with graduate student Drew Pyne recovering from an injury. Redshirt freshman Lucian Anderson III might start, as Pyne’s status remains uncertain. Offensively, BGSU ranks seventh in the MAC, scoring 22.3 points per game. Meanwhile, their defense has been robust, allowing 25.3 points per game and forcing seven fumbles.

Central Michigan’s Challenges and Strengths

Central Michigan also possesses a 3-3 overall and 1-1 conference record, tied for fourth in the MAC standings. The Chippewas recently took a break with a bye week, following a win against Eastern Michigan and a loss to Akron. Head Coach Matt Drinkall acknowledged their emotional unpreparedness in their recent defeat.

Central Michigan showcases offensive efficiency with a 146.5 rating, focusing heavily on their rushing game. They’ve accumulated 188.5 rushing yards per game, ranking third in the conference. They employ a two-quarterback system, utilizing Joe Labas and Angel Flores for different play styles. Defensively, CMU leads with seven interceptions but ranks seventh with 381.8 yards allowed per game.

Key Players to Watch

• Cameron Pettaway (BGSU No. 26): A dynamic force, Pettaway has the five longest plays for the Falcons this season and leads the nation with 35.1 yards per kick return.
• Gideon Lampron (BGSU No. 4): The junior linebacker has excelled in a larger role, registering 13 tackles against Toledo. He ranks in the top four in the conference for tackles for loss and total tackles.
• Angel Flores (CMU No. 7): Flores leads CMU with 384 rushing yards, demonstrating his rushing prowess particularly in recent games.
• Michael Heldman (CMU No. 97): Heldman is a defensive standout, leading with 6.5 tackles for loss and securing 4.5 sacks this season.