KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- The 2025 Mid-American Conference Champion Western Michigan football team heads down to Myrtle Beach, S.C., to play in the Myrtle Beach Bowl against Conference USA Champions, Kennesaw State on Friday, Dec. 19 at 11 a.m. on ESPN.

This will be the first-ever game between the Broncos (9-4, 7-1 MAC) and the Owls (10-3, 7-1 CUSA).

"After a championship season, I can't think of a more fitting conclusion than to have the opportunity to compete against another Group of Five champion," said WMU Director of Athletics/Vice President Dan Bartholomae. "We are excited to showcase everything that is great about WMU on ESPN and celebrate an historic season by our Broncos."

Western Michigan heads bowling for the 13th time in program history, winning the 2015 Bahamas Bowl against Middle Tennessee State and the 2021 Quicklane Bowl against Nevada.

"We are honored to represent Western Michigan University and the Mid-American Conference in the Myrtle Beach Bowl," said head coach Lance Taylor. "This is a tremendous opportunity for our team to showcase Bronco football on a national stage against the Champions of Conference USA, Kennesaw State. Our players have earned this moment through their GRIT, preparation, and belief in each other. We're excited for the challenge ahead. Go Broncos!"

The Broncos reached bowl eligibility after finishing the season with a 9-4 record and winning the MAC Championship for the fourth time in program history after a 23-13 win over Miami on Dec. 6. WMU heads to the Myrtle Beach Bowl on a five-game winning streak and winners of nine of its last 10.

Information regarding tickets will be released on Monday.