Bowling Green Football: A Story of Triumph and Resilience

Every fall, the campus of Bowling Green State University becomes a sea of brown and orange as the football season gets underway. The BGSU Falcons have a rich tradition of success on the gridiron, with several memorable moments and legendary players. In this article, we delve into the history, triumphs, and challenges faced by Bowling Green football.

Early Success and the National Championship

The Falcons' football program dates back to 1919, and they quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Under the leadership of legendary coach Doyt Perry, BGSU captured the National Championship in 1959, a feat that remains the school's greatest athletic achievement. That season, the Falcons went 13-0 and defeated the Mississippi Southern Eagles 38-28 in the Refrigerator Bowl, the precursor to the modern-day National Championship Game.

A Legacy of MAC Dominance

Following their national championship victory, the Falcons continued to dominate their conference, the Mid-American Conference (MAC). BGSU has won 12 MAC Championships, the most in conference history. The Falcons have also made 15 bowl game appearances, including the Motor City Bowl, the GMAC Bowl, and the GoDaddy Bowl.

Notable Players and Coaches

Throughout their history, the Falcons have been blessed with exceptional players and coaches. Don Nehlen, who coached BGSU from 1968 to 1976, is considered one of the greatest coaches in MAC history. Nehlen's Falcons won three MAC Championships and finished in the top 10 nationally in three consecutive seasons.
Several BGSU players have gone on to successful NFL careers. Travis Prentice, a running back who played for the Falcons from 2000 to 2004, is the school's all-time leading rusher and holds the NCAA record for the most rushing touchdowns in a single game (9). Another notable Falcon is Josh Harris, a wide receiver who played in the NFL for 13 seasons.

Challenges and Adversity

While the Falcons have experienced great success, they have also faced their share of challenges. In recent years, the program has struggled to sustain its previous level of dominance and has faced allegations of academic misconduct.
Despite these setbacks, the Falcons remain a proud and passionate football program. The community of Bowling Green rallies behind the team, and the Doyt Perry Stadium is known for its electric atmosphere on game days.

The Future of Bowling Green Football

As the Falcons look to the future, they are determined to return to the top of the MAC and compete for a spot in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs. With a dedicated coaching staff, talented players, and a loyal fanbase, the future of Bowling Green football looks promising.
The story of Bowling Green football is one of triumph, resilience, and enduring passion. From their historic national championship victory to their continued dominance in the MAC, the Falcons have captured the hearts of fans for decades. As they navigate the challenges and strive for future glory, the Falcons will undoubtedly continue to bring pride and excitement to the Bowling Green community.