Uremovich, Cardinals Prepare for Challenge at Western Michigan
October 06, 2025 | Football
MUNCIE, Ind. – Coming off a home victory to open Mid-American Conference play versus Ohio, Ball State head coach Mike Uremovich, Roman Pearson and Tristan Cook joined the media to look ahead at the team's Oct. 11 matchup against Western Michigan Monday morning.
With the Broncos having the momentum of a three-game win streak and hosting in front of their Homecoming crowd, Uremovich stated that this weekend will be a big challenge.
"We're playing what I think is the hottest team in the MAC right now," Uremovich said. "They are top five in the country in sacks and in the top 25 in tackles for loss. They are obviously playing really good football. I know they're playing with a lot of confidence."
After a 20-14 comeback victory over the Bobcats last week, Uremovich stated the focus remains on starting faster on offense and correcting mistakes in preparation against a team that is currently 2-0 in conference play.
"Offensively, we have to start faster as a team," Uremovich stated. "We've got to put points on the board earlier, instead of waiting for the second half."
Defensively, the Cardinals made strides, holding Ohio to zero points and only 95 total yards in the second half. The success is something Pearson credits to the unit's steady, growth-mindset approach.
"I think we just come in every week with the mindset to continue to build," Pearson stated. "We talk about progressing every week, and I think that's what we've bought into."
The offensive line drew confidence after the home win, not allowing Ohio to gain a single sack throughout the game and aiding the offense to six drives of eight plays or longer.
"It's motivating for sure," Cook said. "We need to stay confident in each other no matter the situation. We've got to continue to fight, stick together and understand that we can play well against any team in the MAC."
Ball State visits Waldo Stadium to go against Western Michigan Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET. Fans can tune in live on WLBC 104.1 FM to follow the action.
With the Broncos having the momentum of a three-game win streak and hosting in front of their Homecoming crowd, Uremovich stated that this weekend will be a big challenge.
"We're playing what I think is the hottest team in the MAC right now," Uremovich said. "They are top five in the country in sacks and in the top 25 in tackles for loss. They are obviously playing really good football. I know they're playing with a lot of confidence."
After a 20-14 comeback victory over the Bobcats last week, Uremovich stated the focus remains on starting faster on offense and correcting mistakes in preparation against a team that is currently 2-0 in conference play.
"Offensively, we have to start faster as a team," Uremovich stated. "We've got to put points on the board earlier, instead of waiting for the second half."
Defensively, the Cardinals made strides, holding Ohio to zero points and only 95 total yards in the second half. The success is something Pearson credits to the unit's steady, growth-mindset approach.
"I think we just come in every week with the mindset to continue to build," Pearson stated. "We talk about progressing every week, and I think that's what we've bought into."
The offensive line drew confidence after the home win, not allowing Ohio to gain a single sack throughout the game and aiding the offense to six drives of eight plays or longer.
"It's motivating for sure," Cook said. "We need to stay confident in each other no matter the situation. We've got to continue to fight, stick together and understand that we can play well against any team in the MAC."
Ball State visits Waldo Stadium to go against Western Michigan Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET. Fans can tune in live on WLBC 104.1 FM to follow the action.
Players Mentioned
OL
/ Football
DB
/ FootballThis Week in Ball State Sports Podcast // Mike Uremovich, Lindsey Green & Jeff Mitchell
Thursday, October 09
Ball State Football Weekly Press Conference vs. Western Michigan
Wednesday, October 08
Football // Win vs. Ohio Cinematic Recap Video
Wednesday, October 08
Football // Tale of the Tape: Breaking down go-ahead TD vs. Ohio with Coach, Kelly, and Magwood
Tuesday, October 07