Miami (Ohio) Clinches Third Consecutive MAC Title Game Berth with Thrilling 45-24 Win Over Ball State
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Miami (Ohio) secured their third consecutive trip to the Mid-American Conference (MAC) title game after a dominant 45-24 win over Ball State. Quarterback Thomas Gotkowski led the charge with three touchdown passes, including a 55-yard strike to Kam Perry. Gotkowski completed 12 of 24 passes for 226 yards and also contributed 44 yards on the ground. The RedHawks never trailed, thanks in part to their strong defense, which combined for six sacks. Jordan Brunson and D'Shawntae Jones both scored rushing touchdowns, and the team's offense churned out 234 rushing yards. Ball State's Kiael Kelly had a respectable game, throwing for 177 yards and two touchdowns, but it wasn't enough to overcome the RedHawks' momentum. The Cardinals also struggled with sacks, allowing six and finishing with a total of 49 allowed in the season. The win marks the fifth consecutive victory for Miami (Ohio) over Ball State, and they finish the regular season with a 7-5 record and a 6-2 record in the MAC. The RedHawks will face Western Michigan in the MAC title game, edging out Ohio and Toledo due to a tiebreaker between common opponents.