Getting to know Western Michigan ahead of Michigan’s season opener

Detroit, Michigan - December 06, 2025 - The Michigan Wolverines are set to host the Western Michigan Broncos on Saturday, marking the start of the 2026 football season. Western Michigan, currently a 27.5-point favorite, boasts an impressive 7-0 record against Michigan. This is due to a 47-14 victory in 2021 and a 49-3 triumph in 2018. The Wolverines have never lost to WMU in their all-time matchups.

In the 2025 MAC Football Championship, WMU achieved the best in the conference, securing a 10-4 record and 7-1 standing within the MAC. The Broncos concluded their season with a dominant 41-6 win over Kennesaw State in the Myrtle Beach Bowl. However, WMU faced two Big Ten teams and lost both, to Michigan State by 23-6 and Illinois by 41-0.

Head coach Lance Taylor, who guided WMU to his first winning season, now has a 20-19 record. A loss to Michigan would bring his record back to .500. Kyle Whittingham, the Michigan coach, views Western Michigan as a formidable opponent, acknowledging their MAC title win last year and their lack of overlooking in any capacity.

Western Michigan's ground game is a significant threat, with quarterback Broc Lowry and running back Jalen Buckley returning as key players. Lowry rushed for 963 yards and 14 touchdowns, while Buckley added 1,003 yards and 9 scores last season. The Broncos eclipsed 200 rushing yards nine times in 14 games and over 300 yards twice.

Newly appointed defensive coordinator Greer Martini, stepping in after Chris O’Leary's departure, is expected to bolster an already strong defense. WMU's returning talent includes Jarvarius Sims, who led the team in tackles last season with 64, cornerback Josh Franklin with 53, and safety Micah Davis with 60 and an interception. Martini, who was on the WMU staff last season as linebackers coach, should maintain continuity in defensive strategy.