The Cinderella-style story the Central Michigan Chippewas wrote this season came to an unfortunate end at Ford Field this afternoon in the Mac Championship game.
They were bested by the Miami Ohio Redhawks in front of over 22,000 fans by a 26-21 final score, ending their run of perfect Mac Championship games. With the win, Miami (8-5, 7-2 MAC) captured its conference-leading 16th MAC title.
Miami freshman Brett Gabbert finished the afternoon 14 for 27 passing with 196 yards and a touchdown. Kicker Sam Sloman kicked four field goals, including the game-winning score from 48 yards with less than five minutes remaining in the game. A final hail-Mary attempt by the Chips fell short.
Despite the loss, the Chippewas can expect a bowl bid.