WKU Falls Short Against Central Michigan 24-21

Western Kentucky's first bowl appearance in school history came up just short Wednesday night as Central MIchigan turned a blocked punt into a late touchdown to beat the Hilltoppers 24-21 in the LIttle Caesar's Pizza Bowl in Detroit.

CMU (7-6) thought they had the go-ahead touchdown, but it was overturned by replay.  After turning the ball over on downs inside the WKU 5, the Chippewas held, and Hendrix Brakefield's punt was blocked after Brakefield fumbled the snap.  The Chippewas were able to convert on their second chance, as quarterback Ryan Radcliff hit Cody Wilson with an eleven yard touchdown pass for the game winner.

WKU (7-6) drove for what they hoped would be the winning score, but failed on a fourth down and two with less than a minute to go.  Interim head coach Lance Guidry elected to go for it on fourth down from the CMU 22 yard line.  Garrett Schwegmann was 8-8 in field goals inside of 30 yards, but only 2-5 on those outside of 30.  Kawuan Jakes' fourth down pass for TE Jack Doyle was incomplete and CMU was able to run out the clock.