Kent State University
Central Michigan University
Golden Flashes host Central Michigan on Senior Day
11/18/2025 6:00:00 PM | Football
KENT, Ohio – The Kent State Golden Flashes (4-6, 3-3 MAC) host the Central Michigan Chippewas (6-4, 4-2 MAC) on Wednesday night at Dix Stadium in a crucial Mid-American Conference clash. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Eastern on ESPNU.
Series History
This marks the 27th meeting between these two programs, with Central Michigan holding a commanding 25-11 edge in the all-time series. The Chippewas have won the last two contests, including a dominant 54-30 victory in the most recent matchup in 2021. Kent State will look to reverse recent history in this rivalry as both teams jockey for position in the MAC standings.
Flashes Riding Momentum After Overtime Thriller
The Flashes enter Wednesday's home finale riding a wave of momentum after a thrilling 42-35 overtime victory at Akron. Quarterback Dru DeShields delivered a career-defining performance, throwing for 317 yards and five touchdowns—the most by a Kent State quarterback since Josh Cribbs in 2004. DeShields' outstanding play earned him MAC Offensive Player of the Week honors, Manning Stars of the Week, and a spot on the prestigious Davey O'Brien Great Eight list.
DeShields has been one of the MAC's most efficient signal-callers when healthy this season, posting a 156.5 passer rating that ranks first in the conference. The redshirt sophomore has completed 58.4% of his passes for 1,638 yards and 16 touchdowns in nine games, while demonstrating exceptional big-play ability with an average of 14.76 yards per completion, also the best in the MAC.
Wide receiver Cade Wolford remains the Flashes' most explosive weapon, hauling in 17 receptions for 449 yards and seven touchdowns this season. His 26.41 yards per catch leads the team and ranks among the nation's best, making him a constant threat to break a long touchdown on any play. Da'Shawn Martin provides a complementary target with 27 catches for 364 yards and three scores.
The ground game features running back Gavin Garcia, who has compiled 419 yards on 107 attempts with two touchdowns. Jordan Nubin has provided a boost since returning from injury, averaging 3.3 yards per carry with 220 yards and a score in six games.
Special teams have been a game-changing factor for Kent State, as Da'Realyst Clark leads the nation with two kickoff return touchdowns and boasts an impressive 29.0 yards per return—best in the MAC. Clark's explosive 89-yard touchdown reception against Akron showcased his versatility and big-play ability. His game-breaking speed gives the Flashes a chance to flip field position or score on any kick.
Defensively, CJ Young anchors the unit with 82 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and one interception. Mason Woods, who received weekly recognition from the league, has contributed 77 tackles and leads a defense that ranks second in the MAC in fourth-down conversion percentage defense at just 31.3%. Jamond Mathis provides pass rush with 6.0 sacks.
Central Michigan Bowl Eligible and Hunting for More
The Chippewas enter Wednesday's contest having secured bowl eligibility for the first time since 2021 with their 38-19 victory over Buffalo. First-year head coach Matt Drinkall has Central Michigan positioned in a second-place tie in the MAC standings at 4-2, just one game behind league-leading Western Michigan. The Chippewas remain in contention for a MAC Championship Game berth, making Wednesday's game critical for their postseason aspirations.
Quarterback Joe Labas directs the Central Michigan offense with efficiency, completing an impressive 72.2% of his passes for 1,313 yards and 10 touchdowns against just four interceptions. His 167.08 passer rating ranks first in the conference and sixth nationally, making him one of the country's most accurate signal-callers.
The Chippewas feature a multifaceted rushing attack led by running back Angel Flores, who has racked up 519 yards and eight touchdowns on 5.0 yards per carry in eight games. Nahree Biggins complements Flores with 436 yards and two scores while averaging 5.1 yards per attempt. Trey Cornist provides another option with 361 yards and one touchdown, giving Central Michigan one of the MAC's most balanced ground games.
In the passing game, wide receiver Langston Lewis leads the way with 27 receptions for 413 yards and three touchdowns. Tommy McIntosh has hauled in 19 catches for 310 yards and two scores, while Tyson Davis adds 16 receptions for 196 yards and two touchdowns. The trio provides Labas with reliable targets across the field.
Central Michigan's defense forced a season-high five turnovers against Buffalo, showcasing its ability to create game-changing plays. Linebacker Jordan Kwiatkowski leads the unit with 82 tackles, 6.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sack, and three interceptions—including one returned for a touchdown. Dakota Cochran has contributed 63 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, and one interception returned for a touchdown. Defensive end Michael Heldman has been a consistent disruptor with 7.5 sacks, ranking third in the conference. The Chippewas' defense ranks 12th nationally in turnovers gained with 18, tied for the MAC lead.
Keys to the Game
- Protect Dru DeShields—Kent State must keep its hot-handed quarterback upright against a Central Michigan defense that has recorded 21 sacks this season.
- Contain the balanced attack—The Flashes' defense must stop both Flores and Biggins on the ground while limiting Labas' efficiency through the air.
- Win the turnover battle—Central Michigan's 18 takeaways lead the MAC and have fueled their bowl-eligible season; Kent State cannot afford costly giveaways.
- Exploit the big-play potential—With Wolford, Clark, and Martin all capable of scoring from anywhere, Kent State must manufacture explosive plays.
- Finish drives in the red zone—Kent State has converted 53.3% of red zone trips into touchdowns; improving that efficiency will be critical.
- Control the line of scrimmage—The team that wins the battle up front will likely control the game's tempo and outcome.
The two teams kick off at 7 p.m. Eastern on Wednesday, November 19, at Dix Stadium in Kent, Ohio. The game will be televised nationally on ESPNU.
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