It seems so long since Western Michigan played the role of Group of Five’s gold standard program. The Broncos were on top of the world in 2016 as one of two teams to enter bowl season undefeated. Despite a hiccup in the Cotton Bowl against Wisconsin, the Broncos still stood strong, garnering more brand recognition and national attention than ever. Kalamazoo even hosted College GameDay, a feat only one other MAC school can claim.
P.J. Fleck then bolted to an unexpected opening at Minnesota, but the Broncos’ span of success hadn’t run out of steam yet.