Preview: Rivalry, cold conditions highlight battle for Victory Cannon

Central Michigan football is 1-5 and without a win in six weeks. The team is playing for bragging rights and the Victory Cannon on Wednesday at 8 p.m. against Western Michigan.  Head coach Jim McElwain is disappointed with the team's performance. He wants to see his team be successful. It's not about the win-loss record, but about winning the game.

Western Michigan is a different team on offense and defense this season. The Broncos have struggled to score points, but they are one of the best defenses in the MAC. Their offense is mostly based on the rushing attack, with junior running back Sean Tyler leading the way. On defense, they have been very solid, especially against the run and the pass. They are fifth in MAC with 221.6 yards per game allowed. They have forced 17 turnovers this year. Last season, Western Michigan beat CMU in their meeting. CMu won the game. It was played in cold conditions.

CMU's offense is going to rely on the ground game to get back on track. Last week, QB Bert Emanuel Jr. set several rushing records. Jase Bauer is expected to play after missing last week's game with a rib injury. He will be joined by junior running back Lew Nichols.   The Chippewas hope to keep WMU off balance and give themselves an opportunity to win.

The Broncos love to force turnovers, while the Chippewas love turning it over. The key to victory for CMU is to keep the ball out of the Broncos' defensive unit's hands. The rotation of quarterbacks CMu has deployed over the last few weeks has done wonders for its offensive production.

Rivalry, cold conditions highlight the match between Victory Cannon and the Red Bull.