Rapid Reaction: WMU 49, CMU 10
Broncos dominate Chippewas for third consecutive victory in rivalry
The Victory Cannon will be staying in Kalamazoo for at least another year after the Western Michigan football team defeated Central Michigan 49-10 in front of 30,411 visitors.
The Broncos topped the Chippewas to earn the Cannon for the third consecutive year.
The Broncos' 3-game win streak in the rivalry is their longest since they won three straight from 2001-03.
The lost was the worst since a 40-3 defeat to Syracuse at home.
What happened:
CMU entered the second half down 28-3. The Chippewas opened the second half with an onside kick recovery, but it was called back for illegal touching.
On the ensuing play, WMU's Zach Terrell connected with Corey Davis for a 45-yard touchdown to take a 28-3 lead.
The Broncos put the game out of reach with an 85-yard interception return for a touchdown to take a 35-3 advantage.
What it means:
The Chippewas opened the season 3-0 for the first time since 2002, but have now lost back-to-back games.
CMU's offensive line struggled giving up six sacks in the first half alone and eight total.
Senior quarterback Cooper Rush was unable to find much time to sit back and observe the field as the Broncos' defensive line was aggressive.
Rush failed to throw for over 200 yards for the first time this season and finished the game 17-of-29 for 178 yards and one touchdown one interception.
Defensively, the Chippewas struggled to contain WMU's Javon Franklin, who powered his way to 132 yards and two touchdowns on 23 carries. The Broncos rushed for 254 yards.
The Chippewas opened Mid-American Conference play with a loss for the fourth time in five seasons.
What's next:
The Chippewas return to action for homecoming next weekend against Ball State.
The Cardinals head into the game with a 3-2 record after falling to Northern Illinois 31-24 Saturday.
