Western Michigan officially gets first win of 2026: 'Momentum is real'
Western Michigan beat Monmouth before a crowd of more than 24,000 in Kalamazoo on Sept. 12. It was the largest crowd for a WMU home opener since 2017.
Western Michigan earned its first win of the 2026 season on Saturday, September 12, with a resounding 49-14 victory over FCS opponent Monmouth at home in Kalamazoo. The Broncos (1-1) dominated the game, forcing two turnovers and powering through the offense in the second half to cruise to a convincing win. This victory comes after a tumultuous week for the university, following a controversial last-second loss to Michigan in the previous game.
The win not only marked a significant milestone for the football team but also demonstrated a palpable momentum within the university community, as declared by Western Michigan President Russ Kavalhuna. The team, currently led by redshirt senior running back Jalen Buckley and redshirt junior quarterback Broc Lowry, is poised to continue its winning streak and pursue consideration for the College Football Playoff's berth in the Group of Six.
The win also came on the heels of Michigan's upset 17-10 victory over No. 10 Oklahoma earlier that day, adding to the buzz surrounding Western Michigan's early season performance.
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