Michigan opens season against MAC champion Western Michigan Broncos

Michigan begins its 2026 campaign against Western Michigan, a team that secured the MAC championship with a 10-4 record and a 41-6 win over Kennesaw State in the Myrtle Beach Bowl. The Wolverines enter as a 27.5-point favorite and have never lost to the Broncos, holding a 7-0 series lead. Western Michigan relies heavily on its ground game, led by quarterback Broc Lowry and running back Jalen Buckley, who each surpassed 900 rushing yards last season.

New defensive coordinator Greer Martini, formerly the linebackers coach, will continue the scheme that produced a top-five national sack ranking. Key defensive contributors returning include Jarvarius Sims, cornerback Josh Franklin, and safety Micah Davis. Coach Kyle Whittingham said the game will serve as a gauge for Michigan’s strengths and areas needing improvement.