Division races in the Mid-American Conference are beginning to heat up, with Ohio and Akron battling for the East division lead, and Western Michigan still in the driver’s seat in the West Division.
Central Michigan vs. Toledo
This matchup between five win teams in an average year would have huge implications for division, in this case the MAC West, standings. But, with Western Michigan being so dominant, this game looks like a battle for second place.
The two teams are evenly matched, and Central Michigan coach John Bonamego knows his team can play in close games, which they have had to do all season.
“It’s the toughness and resolve, and that really starts with the leadership that we have on our team,” Bonamego said. “We have a great group of senior leaders, but we’ve got leaders in the junior class, sophomore class and freshman class. It’s a gritty group.”
The play of Chippewas quarterback Cooper Rush will be important.
“You (have) got to find ways to be disruptive and to get (Rush) uncomfortable,” Toledo coach Jason Candle said. “That’s easier said than done.”
Akron vs. Ball State
The results of this game will have implications in the race for the MAC East –– especially for the Bobcats. A win by Akron and a loss by Ohio would change the landscape in the division greatly.
An interesting matchup in this game will be Ball State’s rush offense against Akron’s rush defense. Ball State has the 26th ranked rushing offense in the country, while Akron’s rush defense is the 97th best.
“They run the football so well, and we haven’t stopped the running game against a lot of teams,” Akron coach Terry Bowden said. “So we have a great challenge, that we have to find a way to stop their running back.”
If Akron can stop the Cardinals' rushing attack, Ball State may have problems passing the ball.
“They’re not afraid to play in man coverage, and attack you,” Ball State coach Mike Neu said.
No. 20 Western Michigan vs. Eastern Michigan
Western Michigan has not lost a game to this point and, in facing Eastern Michigan this week, look to continue that trend.
Eastern Michigan coach Chris Creighton said his team is not looking to end Western Michigan’s streak, but accomplish their own goals.
“I don’t think it’s about doing anything to them,” Creighton said. “Our goal is to go to and win a bowl game.”
The Eagles are now one win away from bowl eligibility which would be their first time reaching that status since 1995.
