As the regular season wraps up, Central Michigan football prepares to host its rivals Western Michigan on Tuesday. For the Chippewas, this won’t only be a high-stake game, but an emotional one, as they celebrate their seniors.

With a young team and an up-and-down season, CMU will rely heavily on the leadership of its seniors, including linebacker Justin Whiteside, as they look to end the season with a victory in one of the biggest rivalry games in the Mid-American Conference.

“This program has really changed my life,” senior linebacker Justin Whiteside said. “From being the only FBS school that wanted to take a chance on me to all the highs and the lows. This program and this town really helped me grow into a man.”

CMU, who is 3-7 overall and 1-5 in MAC play, are still facing significant injuries. Both quarterbacks, Joe Labas and Bert Emanuel Jr., are still out for the season. CMU comes into this game after a tough loss against Toledo, where freshman quarterback Jaidyn Glasser struggled with turnovers, throwing two interceptions.

“He's a competitor,” head coach Jim McElwain said. “It was really his first chance to really see what it's all about…and this is a great teaching film for him. There are obviously things you always want back and yet there’s good things that you do as well. Now he’s seen the speed of the game…so I’m excited to see how he does this week.”

Meet the opponent

Western Michigan comes into this game 5-5 overall and 4-2 in MAC play. Led by head coach Lance Taylor, the Broncos will be looking to take home the Victory Cannon Trophy once again, extending their dominance in the series.

CMU hasn't won the trophy since 2021.

Defensively, the Chippewas have been solid, but they’ll face a more explosive Western Michigan offense. It is led by redshirt senior quarterback Hayden Wolff who is in his second season with the Broncos. Alongside him is running back Jalen Buckley who has 504 rushing yards this season.

The Broncos’ ability to control the game, both offensively and defensively, will present a challenge for the Chippewas.

“The one thing that pops out to me is how fundamentally sound they are in all phases,” McElwain said. “I think that’s a credit to Lance and his coaching staff. They've got explosive players. They do a great job of taking away your bread and butter...which shows you they’re well coached.”

Key to victory

The Chippewas cannot afford to repeat the mistakes they made in their previous game, where they gave up two turnovers to Toledo. Glasser must avoid turnovers, while the CMU defense will need to create opportunities by forcing takeaways.

The Broncos have a playmaking offense that can strike at any moment. The CMU defense must remain disciplined and limit Western’s big-play opportunities.

The Chippewas will need to establish a more balanced offensive game plan, mixing a strong running game with Glasser’s passing attack. If CMU can control the ball and keep Western Michigan's offense off the field, they’ll be in a better position to compete.

“Through all the experiences, I don't regret any of it,” Whiteside said. “Even this season, I wouldn't change anything about it because you learn a lot from your successes, but you learn even more from your failures.”

Central Michigan (3-7) vs. Western Michigan (5-5)

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Date: Tuesday, Nov. 19

Stadium: Kelly/Shorts Stadium

Location: Mount Pleasant

TV: ESPN