WMU tops CMU 24-21, retains Cannon Trophy

**Lowry’s Late Heroics Secure Cannon Trophy for Western Michigan in Thrilling 24-21 Victory Over Central Michigan**

**KALAMAZOO, Mich.** – Western Michigan quarterback Broc Lowry delivered a dramatic 7-yard touchdown pass to receiver Talique Williams with just 1:50 remaining in the fourth quarter, lifting the Broncos to a hard-fought 24-21 victory over fierce rival Central Michigan in their annual “Battle for the Cannon” rivalry game this past Saturday at Waldo Stadium. The come-from-behind win ensured the coveted Cannon Trophy will remain in Kalamazoo for another year.

The decisive score capped a clutch, 75-yard drive orchestrated by Lowry, who finished the day with two touchdown passes. Western Michigan had trailed 21-17 before the game-winning possession, facing down a determined Central Michigan squad that had seized momentum earlier in the second half.

“Our guys showed incredible resilience today,” Western Michigan head coach Lance Taylor said after the game. “Broc made some fantastic throws, especially on that final drive, and Talique’s catch was just phenomenal. This game means so much to our program, our university, and our fans. To keep the Cannon here is a testament to their grit.”

The rivalry contest, a cornerstone of the Mid-American Conference (MAC) schedule, lived up to its billing, offering a back-and-forth struggle in front of a spirited crowd of 22,175 at Waldo Stadium.

Central Michigan (3-5 overall, 1-4 MAC) initially found success on the ground and through timely passes from quarterback Bert Emanuel Jr. The Chippewas took a 7-0 lead in the first quarter, later extending it to 14-7 before Western Michigan (4-4 overall, 3-2 MAC) responded with a touchdown to tie the score at halftime. CMU then broke the 17-17 tie late in the third quarter with a field goal and a subsequent touchdown drive early in the fourth, setting the stage for WMU’s late-game heroics.

Lowry, a sophomore, completed 18 of 29 passes for 215 yards, showcasing poise under pressure in critical moments. His second touchdown pass to Williams was the most significant, but his overall command of the offense, especially during the final sequence, drew praise. Williams finished as one of the Broncos’ leading receivers, including the game-winner.

Defensively, Western Michigan made crucial stops throughout the game, preventing Central Michigan from extending their leads further. The Broncos’ defensive line applied consistent pressure, while the secondary broke up several key passes downfield. Central Michigan’s Coach Jim McElwain acknowledged the toughness of the rivalry. “It’s a tough loss. Credit to Western Michigan for making the plays when it mattered most. We’ll learn from this and move forward.”

The “Battle for the Cannon” has been played between the two universities since 1907, with Western Michigan now extending its lead in the all-time series to 53-39-2. The Broncos have now won five of the last six matchups against their in-state rivals. The symbolic Cannon Trophy, a gift from the WMU ROTC and CMU ROTC units, adds an extra layer of tradition and intensity to the contest.

With the victory, Western Michigan improves its position in the MAC West Division standings, keeping its hopes alive for a strong finish to the season. Central Michigan, meanwhile, will look to regroup as they continue their conference slate.

Western Michigan will travel to Toledo next Saturday for another MAC showdown, while Central Michigan will host Northern Illinois in Mount Pleasant.