PureMichiganChip, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Team History
The Chippewas have the 24th highest overall winning percentage ever. They started off hot at the FBS level, going 17 seasons before a losing record. But have been very up and down since then. After 3 straight losing seasons they are moving on from Jim McElwain, so there could be a lot of unkowns headed into the 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
In 2009 they entered the AP poll for the first time ever and ended up finishing the year ranked. This also capped off a run of 3 conference championships in 4 seasons.
Rock Bottom
The Mike Debord tenure at the beginning of the century. 4 years of 8 or 9 losses each season.
Best Ever Player
Dan Lefevour (QB, 2006-2009): 3 time First Team All MAC. 2 time MAC OPOY. 8th in total career yards in NCAA history. Had a season with 3600 passing yards, 27 passing touchdowns, 1100 rushing yards, and 19 rushing touchdowns. Check out the highlight tape.
Best Ever Coach
Brian Kelly (2004-2009): Immediately took over after this team hit rock bottom and left giving the fans everything they could have hoped for.
Stadium
Kelly/Shorts Stadium
First Season
1896
Enrollment
14,000