On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the Western Michigan Broncos defeated the Miami University RedHawks 23-13 to win the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Championship. This victory marked Western Michigan’s first conference title since 2016 and denied Miami a second championship in three years.
The game was defined by Western Michigan’s explosive ground attack and a stifling defense that kept Miami’s offense out of rhythm for most of the contest. While the RedHawks managed to stay within striking distance early, they ultimately could not overcome two massive touchdown runs by Broncos running back Jalen Buckley.
1. The Explosive Start (1st Quarter) Western Michigan wasted no time asserting dominance. On just the third play of the game, running back Jalen Buckley broke free for a 67-yard touchdown run, giving the Broncos an immediate 7-0 lead.
Miami Responds: The RedHawks answered on their first possession with a 2-yard touchdown run by Jordan Brunson, cutting the lead to 7-6 (the extra point was blocked). This would be the closest Miami would get for the remainder of the game.
2. Grinding it Out (2nd Quarter) The second quarter became a defensive battle, but Western Michigan capitalized on field position. Broncos kicker Palmer Domschke successfully converted three field goals in the first half—including a 50-yarder in the final minute of the second quarter—to extend the lead to 16-6 at halftime.
3. The Dagger (3rd Quarter) Just as they did in the first half, Western Michigan struck quickly coming out of the locker room. Less than two minutes into the third quarter, Jalen Buckley escaped for another massive gain, this time a 64-yard touchdown run. This extended the Broncos’ lead to 23-6, putting Miami in a deep hole.
4. Miami’s Failed Comeback (4th Quarter) Miami’s offense struggled significantly, exacerbated by an injury to starting quarterback Thomas Gotkowski, which forced backup Henry Hesson into the game.
The RedHawks managed a late touchdown pass from Hesson to Cole Weaver to make it 23-13 with about six minutes remaining.
However, the Broncos’ defense held firm on subsequent drives, including a crucial fourth-down stop deep in their own territory, sealing the victory.