WMU News

Broncos tackle Toledo in major MAC clash

September 16, 1998

KALAMAZOO -- The WMU football Broncos are set to face Toledo, the 1997 Mid-American Conference West Division Champion. The Broncos play Toledo at 7 p.m. this Saturday, Sept 19.

Last year this game decided the West Division. It figures to play a major role in determining the division champion again this season.

The Broncos seem ready for the matchup after their tremendous second half push against Indiana, Sept. 12. Toledo is coming off a 49-0 loss to Ohio State.

Western Michigan's seven-game winning streak, the fourth longest in the nation entering Sept. 12 play, came to a close when the Broncos (1-1) lost at Indiana, 45-30. WMU marched back from a 31-7 first half deficit to close to within 31-24, and had the ball at the IU 28-yard line. However, the Broncos were turned away and lost the momentum they'd gained with 17 unanswered points.

The Broncos had a number of fine performances in the game at Indiana. Quarterback Tim Lester had his second-straight 370-plus yard passing game, racking up 371 yards and 2 touchdowns in the win. Lester is No. 5 in the nation in total offense, four spots ahead of Marshall's Chad Pennington.

Steve Neal had 151 yards receiving, marking his second 100-plus yard receiving day. Neal is No. 6 in the nation in receiving yards at 139 yards per game and No. 7 in receptions at 8.50 per game. Darnell Fields rushed for 97 yards on 14 carries and is No. 38 in the nation (third in the MAC) in that category. All-American candidate tight end Jake Moreland caught his third TD pass of the season. Brad Selent is now No. 8 in the nation with four field goals.

Media contact: John Beatty; 616 387-4138; john.beatty@wmich.edu


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