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How Ball State’s run defense manufactured a MAC Championship Game upset

Five MAC teams received an opportunity to test their metal against the Buffalo Bulls this season. But week after week, opponent after opponent, there was no answer to solving Buffalo’s offense. Nobody even came within 19 points of the conference’s juggernaut. Built on the foundation of a sturdy offensive line, the Bulls finished their regular season undefeated, while leading the FBS in scoring average and rushing yards per game.

On a Friday night in Detroit, a formula for mitigation was finally established. Ball State assembled the perfect game-plan to conquer the giant, and the Cardinals controlled the line of scrimmage and forced Buffalo to a season-low 134 rushing yards.