Central Michigan: 2026 Week 12 recap

Central Michigan sits at 4–5 after dismantling Eastern Michigan 35–7 in Week 10, a result that lifted their GIE rating 3.5 points to −13.2 and pulled them into 118th nationally. The blowout win masks a deeper problem: a red-zone touchdown rate of just 12% means the Chippewas are leaving points on the field even in victories. Third-down conversion at 32% and conservative fourth-down approach (34% aggression) suggest an offense still searching for rhythm. The model projects 5.7 expected wins for the season and gives them zero playoff equity. Up next is Sacramento State at home in Week 11—a low-floor, moderate-ceiling matchup that won't dramatically reshape their standing either way.