MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. — In an exciting showdown on Saturday, quarterback Parker Navarro led Ohio to a narrow 27-25 victory over Central Michigan, racking up a total of 323 yards and two touchdowns.

The Bobcats, now sporting a record of 4-2 and holding a 2-0 conference standing in the Mid-American Conference, kicked off the scoring with a 35-yard field goal by Gianni Spetic on their opening drive. Navarro showcased his versatility in the second quarter with an 8-yard touchdown run, extending their lead to 10-0. Later, he tossed a 5-yard touchdown pass to Coleman Owen, following a quick three-and-out, allowing Duncan Brune to add another four-yard touchdown run, which put Ohio firmly in front at 24-0.

However, Central Michigan, which now stands at 3-3 overall and 1-1 in the conference, found a spark. Marion Lukes took matters into his own hands, scoring on a 3-yard run and catching a two-point conversion pass from Tyler Jefferson, narrowing the score to 24-8 with 8:19 to go in the third quarter.

As the fourth quarter unfolded, Tristan Mattson connected for a 37-yard field goal to begin the scoring, and Lukes continued his impressive performance by rushing in a 4-yard touchdown after Donte Kent electrified the crowd with a 70-yard punt return, bringing the score to 24-18.

Spetic responded for Ohio, adding a crucial 46-yard field goal with 5:17 left on the clock, making it a two-score game at 27-18. Central Michigan was not done yet, though, as Lukes burst through for a 28-yard touchdown run, closing in on Ohio’s lead at 27-25 with just 1:52 remaining.

After Central Michigan chose to forego an on-side kick, Ohio executed a series of plays to run out the clock effectively, picking up two first downs along the way. Navarro’s performance featured 176 rushing yards gained on 14 attempts alongside his 147 yards through the air. For Central Michigan, Lukes emerged as a standout, racking up 110 rushing yards on 20 carries and scoring three touchdowns in the valiant effort.