Michigan Collegiate Football Takes Over Postseason: Wolverines, Chippewas, Broncos & D2 Bulldogs Making Their Mark

Broc Lowry cuts to the outside, breaking through the Miami (OH) defense during the MAC Championship game. Photo captured by Matthew Ehler | MLive.com. All images are the property of MLive and used with permission.

Michigan football is lighting up the postseason across every level. From high-profile FBS bowl games to conference championships and D-II dominance, the state is proving that football in the Mitten is alive, competitive, and thriving. This December, fans have reason to cheer and follow some of the most exciting postseason action in recent memory. Michigan Wolverines: A National Spotlight in the Citrus Bowl

The Michigan Wolverines wrapped up their 2025 campaign with a 9–3 record, earning an invitation to the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against the Texas Longhorns. It’s been a season of growth for a young team, with flashes of elite talent and moments of resilience showing the potential of this roster. While Michigan faced some struggles along the way, the team has gained valuable experience and is learning to overcome challenges. Now, the Wolverines have a chance to end the year on a strong note, showcase their talent on a national stage, and build momentum for the future. Fans can look forward to an offense that can make big plays, a defense still developing its consistency, and a squad eager to prove it belongs among the nation’s top programs. Central Michigan Chippewas: Mid-Major Success Pays Off

Meanwhile, the Central Michigan Chippewas quietly built momentum throughout the season, earning a GameAbove Sports Bowl berth. Their campaign was driven by steady growth, key plays in clutch moments, and a coaching staff that knows how to develop talent.

The bowl game is more than a reward it’s validation. For CMU, it’s an opportunity to show they belong in the postseason conversation and to gain exposure on a bigger stage. Western Michigan Broncos: MAC Champions & Bowl-Bound Western Michigan emerged as one of the feel-good stories of the season. The Broncos overcame early challenges to capture the 2025 Mid-American Conference Championship, defeating Miami (OH) 23–13 in a game defined by explosive running from Jalen Buckley, who scored two long touchdown runs of 67 and 64 yards. Their hard work earned them a bid to the 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl, where they’ll face the Kennesaw State Owls. From early-season struggles to conference champions, Western Michigan’s journey is proof that determination, teamwork, and resilience can transform a season. Mac Championship Write up here: https://www.thebigmadonski.com/post/western-michigan-returns-to-the-summit-wins-first-mac-title-since-2016 Ferris State Bulldogs: D‑II Powerhouse Still Rolling, Semifinal Bound

Off the FBS radar, the Ferris State Bulldogs are quietly proving that Michigan football excellence isn’t limited to top-tier programs. Entering the 2025 playoffs as the nation’s No. 1 ranked Division II team after an undefeated 11–0 regular season and a conference championship, the Bulldogs have been dominant at every step. In the first round, Ferris State crushed the Northwood Timberwolves 65–14, showcasing an offensive clinic and reasserting themselves as championship contenders. They followed that with a 56–24 win over the Ashland Eagles, a game defined by a powerful rushing attack and complete control from start to finish. Most recently, Ferris State handled a tough matchup against Minnesota State, defeating the Mavericks 52–29 in the quarterfinals, which also served as the Super‑Region Three Championship. That victory earned them a spot in the Division II National Semifinals for the 2025 season. Ferris State’s postseason run is proof that Michigan football’s dominance extends beyond the FBS level. With a combination of balance, power, coaching continuity, and playoff experience, the Bulldogs remain a formidable force in Division II football. What This Means for Michigan Football

This season, “Michigan football” isn’t just a singular idea it represents a full ecosystem. Between FBS powerhouses, mid‑major contenders, conference champions, and Division II dynamos, the state has strong programs at every level. Fans across Michigan now have reasons to cheer for teams no matter where they live. Whether you’re near Ann Arbor, Kalamazoo, Mount Pleasant, Big Rapids, or elsewhere, there is a team to follow and support. For recruits and high-school players in the state, the path to postseason success is not one-size-fits-all. Whether an athlete aspires to join a blue-blood program, a mid-major contender, or a strong Division II team, opportunities exist across Michigan. The collective success of these programs enhances Michigan’s reputation, showcasing the state not only as home to storied programs but also as a hotbed of football talent, coaching excellence, and competitive depth.

December football in the Mitten has never looked stronger.