Western Michigan Athletics
Western Michigan held a 10-point halftime lead and had chances to close out North Texas at home, but the Broncos couldn’t finish the job, falling 33-30 in overtime at Waldo Stadium. The defeat drops WMU to 0-2, while UNT improved to 2-0. Here’s whose stock rose — and whose fell.
Stock Up
Broc Lowry, QB
Lowry gave the Broncos a fighting chance, accounting for three touchdowns — two on the ground and one through the air. His 141 total yards (75 passing, 66 rushing) showed he can extend plays and keep defenses honest. The redshirt freshman’s poise in the red zone was a bright spot despite the loss.
Palmer Domschke, K
Domschke delivered in clutch situations, drilling field goals from 40, 43, and 48 yards, including one in overtime to briefly put WMU ahead. His reliability from long range was critical in a game that came down to the wire.
Rodney McGraw, DL
McGraw was disruptive all night, tallying 2.5 sacks and multiple tackles. His ability to collapse the pocket helped slow down UNT’s passing attack and gave WMU momentum in key spots.
Stock Down
WMU Secondary
The Broncos’ defensive backs struggled to contain UNT’s receivers, giving up 224 yards and two touchdowns through the air. Costly penalties, including a crucial pass interference in overtime, extended drives that eventually sank WMU’s upset bid.
Offensive Line Protection
While WMU rushed for 216 yards, the line gave up three sacks and allowed consistent pressure, particularly late in the game. That inability to protect in obvious passing downs stalled drives when WMU needed conversions most.
Late-Game Execution
Leading 27-17 early in the fourth quarter, WMU’s offense went stagnant, producing just three points the rest of the way. The Broncos’ inability to close, compounded by penalties and conservative play-calling, swung momentum squarely to North Texas.
Next Up
Western Michigan will hit the road to face #9 Illinois next Saturday under the lights.
About the Author
Dalton Tinklenberg is the Founder and Media Director of The Scouting Depot, where he leads comprehensive coverage of college and professional football. He is an active member of some of the most respected organizations in sports journalism, including the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Maxwell Football Club, Online News Association (ONA), National Football Foundation (NFF), and the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE).
Before launching The Scouting Depot, Dalton worked with Blue HQ Media, where he covered major sporting events such as the Indianapolis 500, the College Football Playoff, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Through his professional affiliations and on-the-ground experience, Dalton combines deep knowledge of the game with recognized standards of storytelling, editorial excellence, and authenticity in sports coverage.
