Quarterback
Ball State – While sophomore Keith Wenning hasn't thrown a touchdown pass since Sept. 24 against Army, he managed the game well Saturday at Ohio, despite being asked to throw the ball more than 35 times for just the third time in his career. He is closing in on his total of 1,373 passing yards from last year, now with 1,289 through seven games this season.
Central Michigan – Junior Ryan Radcliff has had a largely disappointing season, much like the rest of the Chippewas. He has thrown 13 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions in seven games this year. He can be dangerous, however. Twice this season, Radcliff has thrown for more than 350 yards, including last week in a loss to Eastern Michigan.
The Edge – Cardinals – Radcliff has been inconsistent all year, and Central Michigan is at its best when he isn't asked to do too much. Wenning seems to be back on track after back-to-back dismal games.
Running back
Ball State – Freshman Jahwan Edwards has quietly been taking carries away from sophomore Barrington Scott and junior Dwayne Donigan and is becoming Ball State's feature back. Edwards ran 25 times for 123 yards – both career highs – at Ohio. Scott still seems to be shaking off the effects of an injury he suffered at Oklahoma.
Central Michigan – Senior Paris Cotton and sophomore Tim Phillips split the load for the Chippewas. Cotton has the edge on rushing yards, while Phillips has more carries. Neither has been overly effective. Cotton ran for 158 yards at North Carolina State, but was injured against Eastern Michigan. He is expected to be back on the field Saturday.
The Edge – Cardinals – Central Michigan's defense has given up some big days on the ground. Edwards is in prime position to take advantage.
Wide receiver
Ball State – The last three weeks have been tough for the Cardinals' passing game. Ball State is still relying on senior Briggs Orsbon and freshman Willie Snead still has the most receiving yards. Sophomore Connor Ryan had the best game of his career Saturday, catching five passes for 54 yards.
Central Michigan – The Chippewas are led by junior Cody Wilson, who has 35 catches for 384 yards. Ball State coach Pete Lembo called Wilson "a Pete Rose type" and said any coach would like to have him on their team. Freshman Titus Davis has 297 receiving yards and is averaging 22.85 yards per catch.
The Edge – Chippewas – Wilson has been a dependable receiver out of the slot for two years. Now, Davis gives Central Michigan a vertical threat as well.
Defensive backs
Ball State – The Cardinals will get a boost on defense Saturday with the return of All-Mid-American Conference senior safety Sean Baker. He joins a group that helped force two interceptions at Ohio, but still needs playmakers. With Baker, senior Josh Howard and junior Jason Pinkston all healthy enough to play, Ball State may not have to keep wondering where the big plays are.
Central Michigan – Opponents have had some success throwing the ball against the Chippewas, completing 58.9 percent of their passes for 1,521 yards. Junior Jahleel Addae leads Central Michigan with 66 tackles and has made three interceptions this year
The Edge – Cardinals – When healthy, Ball State's defensive backfield is its strongest position. They aren't 100 percent healthy right now, but it likely will be good enough Saturday.
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