Central Michigan Chippewas is 0-0 on the season, 0-0 against the spread, and holds a power rating of -9.9. Central Michigan Chippewas enters the season with a power rating of -9.9, placing them below average relative to the FBS midpoint. The Central Michigan Chippewas head to New Mexico next in Week 1. In 2025, Central Michigan Chippewas went 7-5 overall, 8-4 against the spread, and 7-5 on totals.
In Week 0 of 2026 the Central Michigan Chippewas Power Rating of -9.9 is 10.1 points below the FBS average according to Blue Chip Analytics. Central Michigan Chippewas have logged 0 miles of travel so far, out of a season total of 7,064 miles, ranking 68th heaviest in the FBS.
| Week | Opponent | Distance | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 0 | — | Bye | |
| Week 1 | New Mexico | 1,305 mi | 2,609 mi |
| Week 2 | Colgate | Home | 2,609 mi |
| Week 3 | Wyoming | Home | 2,609 mi |
| Week 4 | Miami | 1,241 mi | 5,091 mi |
| Week 5 | Akron | Home | 5,091 mi |
| Week 6 | Ohio | 325 mi | 5,741 mi |
| Week 7 | Western Michigan | Home | 5,741 mi |
| Week 8 | Miami (OH) | Home | 5,741 mi |
| Week 9 | — | Bye | |
| Week 10 | Eastern Michigan | 122 mi | 5,985 mi |
| Week 11 | Sacramento State | Home | 5,985 mi |
| Week 12 | Buffalo | 305 mi | 6,595 mi |
| Week 13 | Ball State | 234 mi | 7,064 mi |
| Week 14 | — | Bye | |
| Week 15 | — | Bye | |
| Week 16 | — | Bye | |
Central Michigan enters the season with a clear two-quarterback system. Angel Flores is the primary running threat, having rushed for 527 yards and eight touchdowns on 107 carries last season, while Jadyn Glasser is the traditional pocket passer who impressed in spring practice. The coaching staff plans to use both extensively, making the offense unpredictable but also reliant on execution from two different skill sets. How they manage the rotation and whether one emerges as the clear leader will shape the entire season.
The offensive line returns left guard Jacob Russell, an all-league candidate who started every game last year, and is deeper and more experienced overall. Vaughn Blue, a transfer from Liberty, takes over as the lead running back after three up-and-down seasons, with Brock Townsend also in the mix. The ground game should be the engine of the offense, especially with Flores adding a dual-threat element. If the line stays healthy, CMU can control tempo and keep pressure off the quarterbacks.
The defense returns only three starters from a unit that ranked seventh in the MAC in total defense. The linebacker room is completely rebuilt, with Xavier White and Victor Earl stepping into starting roles after limited action last season. The safety position is also inexperienced, relying on Wyoming transfer Justin Taylor. The strength of the defense lies up front with defensive tackle Quavion Bird and edge rushers Korver Demma and sophomore JJ Douglas, who moved from tight end to defensive end and is expected to break out. The secondary is led by third-year starting corner Jaion Jackson, but the lack of proven depth at linebacker and safety is a significant concern.
Central Michigan opens the season at New Mexico, a team that went 9-4 last season, and later travels to national runner-up Miami (Fla.). These two road games will immediately test the team's mettle and reveal whether the offense can keep pace against Power Four competition. The Chippewas also miss two of the four MAC teams that reached a bowl game last year, giving them a slightly more manageable league schedule. A strong start in non-conference play could build momentum for a second straight bowl appearance.
Punter Declan Duley returns after averaging 41.1 yards per punt in his first season with the team, providing a reliable leg for field position. Placekicker Caden VanHuis, a former Under Armour All-American, takes over kicking duties for the first time. His performance in close games could be critical, especially if the offense struggles to finish drives. The rest of the special teams units are unproven, making this an area to watch as the season progresses.
Central Michigan Chippewas is 0-0 against the spread in the 2026 season.
Central Michigan Chippewas holds a Blue Chip Analytics power rating of -9.9, representing their expected point margin against an average FBS team on a neutral field.
Central Michigan Chippewas's home field advantage rating is 2.9 points, the venue adjustment Blue Chip Analytics applies for games at their home stadium.
Central Michigan Chippewas travels 7,064 miles in the 2026 season, ranking 68th heaviest in the FBS.
Cumulative travel distance counts both the outbound and return journey for every away game. For example, if a team travels 374 miles to play an away game, Blue Chip Analytics counts 748 miles (374 miles there, 374 miles back) toward the cumulative total. Home games and bye weeks add zero miles. The per-week Distance column shows the one-way distance only, as the return trip happens after the game is played.
Central Michigan Chippewas: 0-0 overall, 0-0 ATS, power rating -9.9.
