MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich.
— In a compelling performance on Tuesday night, Bowling Green triumphed over Central Michigan with a score of 23-13, thanks in part to Connor Bazelak’s 207 passing yards and a touchdown. Zach Long contributed significantly to the victory, scoring three field goals, helping the Falcons secure their fourth win in the Mid-American Conference.

Bowling Green kicked off the game strong, establishing a 9-0 lead early on, with Long kicking a 32-yard field goal in the opening quarter, followed by successful 40 and 37-yard attempts in the second quarter. After the 37-yarder, which was made with 2:28 left in the first half, Central Michigan responded with an aggressive drive. They managed to cover 75 yards in six plays, culminating in Tyler Jefferson’s one-yard rushing touchdown.

As the third quarter commenced, Bowling Green faced a three-and-out, but Central Michigan quickly shifted momentum by fumbling the ball on their first play of the half. Seizing the opportunity, the Falcons orchestrated a 39-yard drive over six plays, capped by Bazelak’s nine-yard touchdown pass to Levi Gazarek. The team further extended their lead to 23-7 when Jaison Patterson scored from the one-yard line with 5:42 left in the game.

Central Michigan attempted to rally, with quarterback Jadyn Glasser scoring a one-yard rushing touchdown to close the gap. The Chippewas’ Marion Lukes had a noteworthy night, rushing for 72 yards on 20 carries, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.

With this victory, Bowling Green has now claimed five of their last six contests at Kelly/Shorts Stadium since 2002, and they lead the historical series against Central Michigan with a record of 24-19.