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Team History
Ball State joined the FBS in 1981 and have had pretty good success compared to some MAC counterparts. They have played in 9 bowl games and have won 6 MAC Conference Championships. Mike Neu finished the covid season ranked, but was trending in the wrong direction so they'll be breaking in a new coach this season.
Recent Coverage
Optimistic & Pessimistic Outlooks for Each Team
2025-08-19 • Why each team's 2025 season could be great, and why each team's season could turn into a trainwreck....
The G5 Heisman: Best of the 21st Century
2025-06-24 • If the Group of 5 had its own Heisman, these are the players who would've won it. From LT to Ashton ...
Quick Facts
Peak of Program
2020 is a real contender. Finished 7-1 with victories over 2 ranked opponents, ended the year #23 in the AP poll. But the 2008 team may have been more exciting to follow, started 12-0 and got as high as #12 in the rankings.
Rock Bottom
They went a combined 1-21 in 1998 and 1999, fresh off a decade long stretch where they won at least 5 games each season.
Best Ever Player
Nate Davis (QB, 2006-2008): In 2008 he was the MAC offensive player of the year and finished 8th in the Heisman Trophy voting. Threw for over 3500 yards in 2 separate seasons.
Best Ever Coach
Paul Schudel (1985-1994): 2nd in all time wins at the school. Led the team to their first 2 bowl games and 2 conference championships.
Stadium
Scheumann Stadium
First Season
1924
Enrollment
20,000