Preseason Poll Highlights
The Western Michigan Broncos entered the 2026 preseason conversation as the clear favorite, capturing nine first‑place votes in the coaches poll for both the regular‑season crown and the Mid‑American Conference championship. Their dominance was underscored by the poll’s weight, which placed them ahead of all other contenders.
Miami was slotted behind them at second, while Toledo, Ohio, and Central Michigan rounded out the top five, highlighting a competitive but Broncos‑centric landscape. The poll’s results set the tone for expectations across the conference and among fans.
The 80th edition of MAC football will begin on August 29, 2026, and will culminate with the championship game on December 5 at Ford Field in Detroit. That venue will also host the conference’s annual Football Kickoff on July 22, where the teams will be introduced before the season officially starts. The kickoff event will be streamed online, giving viewers across the country a first look at the squads.
With the poll’s overwhelming support, the Broncos are poised to translate preseason optimism into on‑field dominance. Their schedule and preparation suggest a potential historic run that could reshape the Mid‑American Conference narrative heading into the new decade.