When a MAC school comes to Ohio Stadium, it signals an unspoken agreement between administrations – the MAC team assumes a loss and Ohio State thanks them by handing over an exorbitant check.
This has taken place since 1997, when the Buckeyes started their streak of playing at least one MAC squad every season. This year, Northern Illinois and Western Michigan will come to Columbus and both schools will receive a pay day in excess of $900,000.
NIU is a recent powerhouse in their conference, but WMU is receiving all the attention. It's all due to their charismatic head coach.