Ball State football’s midweek MACtion opener turned into a nightmare on the road, as the Cardinals (3-6, 2-3 MAC) suffered a 31-30 overtime defeat at UMass (5-4, 2-3 MAC). The loss snapped Ball State’s two-game winning streak and extended their dismal road record under head coach Mike Uremovich to 1-12. For the Minutemen, the victory was historic, marking their first home win over an FBS opponent in 20 games and ending a four-game losing streak.
Cardinals’ road woes continue as UMass snaps four-game skid with historic home win
The game featured a dramatic finish in regulation, with Ball State executing a two-minute drill to tie the score at 24-24 and force extra time. In overtime, the Cardinals struck first but failed to capitalize on the extra point attempt when kicker Brody Boehm sent the kick wide left. UMass responded swiftly, scoring a quick touchdown and having kicker Derek Morris convert the extra point to seal the victory. The missed kick proved to be the decisive moment in a tight contest that saw both teams trade blows throughout the night.
With six losses on the season, Ball State is now in a precarious position regarding bowl eligibility, requiring six total wins to qualify. The Cardinals have not made a bowl appearance since 2021 and have not won one since 2020. They cannot afford another loss in their final three games to keep their season hopes alive. This defeat highlights the ongoing struggles for the Cardinals away from home, where they have yet to find consistent success under Uremovich’s leadership.
Source: Yahoo Sports
