Western Michigan

Western Michigan's offseason was defined by a backfield exodus that stripped away established production, with running backs Devin Miles and Tre' Hartwell both departing through the portal. The Broncos enter 2026 ranked 93rd nationally with a -4.6 JP+ rating, anchored by a defense that grades out at 56th (+0.9 points) but weighed down by an offense that ranks 121st at -5.3 points per game. Quarterback Broc Lowry returns as the starter, providing stability under center, while the ground game gets reinforced by Arkansas transfer AJ Green and tight end Adam Parks from New Mexico State adds another receiving option.

JP+ projects 6.3 wins for Western Michigan in what shapes up as a challenging MAC campaign, with road trips to Michigan and Toledo highlighting the toughest stretches alongside a home date with Boise State. The gap between that projection and any higher expectations will likely hinge on whether the offense can find its footing behind a rebuilt running back room and whether the defense can continue carrying the load as it did during last season's 9-4 campaign. If the defensive foundation holds and the new pieces mesh quickly on offense, the Broncos could push toward eight wins and MAC contention — but if the offensive struggles persist, they're looking at a step back toward the middle of the conference pack.