The Bowling Green Falcons return home to Doyt L. Perry Stadium on October 18, 2025, looking to capitalize on momentum and continue their steady climb toward bowl eligibility under head coach Scot Loeffler. Sitting at 3–3, the Falcons have shown that when their balanced offense and opportunistic defense click in unison, they can compete with anyone in the MAC. Quarterback Drew Pyne has become the steadying presence this team needed under center, managing games effectively with his short passing accuracy and poise in the pocket. While not a quarterback known for flashy downfield throws, Pyne thrives within Loeffler’s system, which emphasizes quick reads, motion, and an efficient tempo to keep defenses off balance. Running back Terion Stewart remains the backbone of Bowling Green’s offense, averaging close to 4.5 yards per carry and providing the physical edge necessary to control the pace. When the Falcons can establish Stewart early, their play-action passing attack opens up for receivers like Odieu Hiliare and tight end Harold Fannin Jr., both of whom have been reliable red-zone targets this season. Bowling Green’s offensive line has held up admirably, allowing the fewest sacks of any MAC East team, but they’ll face a stern test against Central Michigan’s aggressive front seven, which thrives on penetration and gap control. Defensively, Bowling Green’s identity remains rooted in pressure and physicality. Linebacker Darren Anders leads the unit with his sideline-to-sideline range, while defensive end Karl Brooks has continued to wreak havoc in opposing backfields, consistently drawing double teams and freeing up space for blitz packages.

The Falcons rank among the conference’s best in tackles for loss and have held opponents to under 3.8 yards per carry, a mark that will be tested by Central Michigan’s run-heavy offense. The secondary, anchored by cornerback Jalen Huskey and safety Jordan Oladokun, has improved in communication and spacing, helping limit explosive plays—an area that plagued the team last year. Against the Chippewas, the defense’s primary goal will be to force Jase Bauer into passing situations and capitalize on any errant throws, as Bowling Green has been one of the MAC’s top takeaway teams this season. Special teams have also been a quiet strength, with kicker Mason Lawler providing consistency and punter Rhys Burns flipping field position with precision. Playing at home, the Falcons have shown confidence and composure, averaging nearly seven points more per game than on the road, and that energy will be key in a matchup expected to be dictated by line play and turnovers. Loeffler’s team understands the stakes—win, and they move closer to bowl eligibility and potential MAC East contention; lose, and they risk slipping back into the middle pack. Expect Bowling Green to attack early with tempo, rely on Stewart to wear down the defense, and let their defense dictate the game’s rhythm. If the Falcons execute their balanced game plan and minimize mistakes, they’ll be well-positioned to secure a hard-fought victory in front of their home crowd.