After a year-long hiatus due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the seventh annual Quick Lane Bowl roared back to life with an exciting clash between the Western Michigan Broncos and the Nevada Wolf Pack on December 27, 2021. The stage was set at the iconic Ford Field, and football fans eagerly anticipated the outcome of this thrilling showdown.
The Western Michigan Broncos entered the contest with their sights set on securing only their second bowl win in the school's history. Their regular season performance had been impressive, concluding with a 7-5 record. Notable victories against the MAC Champion Northern Illinois and ACC Champion Pitt added to the Broncos' confidence and determination.
On the opposing side, the Nevada Wolf Pack came into the game with a solid regular season performance, boasting an 8-4 record. Remarkably, this marked their fourth consecutive appearance in a bowl game. Guided by interim head coach Vai Taua, the Wolf Pack were eager to prove their mettle on the field.
The Quick Lane Bowl kicked off with Nevada securing an early 3-0 lead with a field goal on their first drive. However, the game took an electrifying turn on the ensuing kickoff return. Western Michigan's Sean Tyler, with lightning speed, sprinted an astonishing 100 yards for a touchdown, catapulting the Broncos into a 7-3 lead. This pivotal kickoff return set the tone for the rest of the contest, establishing Western Michigan's dominance.
The Broncos controlled the first half of the game, consistently finding the end zone except for a last-minute Hail Mary pass attempt as the half concluded. Western Michigan's defense put up a strong front, forcing Nevada into three and outs on four of their six first-half drives.
Western Michigan's offensive unit was a well-oiled machine, delivering stellar performances across the board. Quarterback Kaleb Eleby showcased his prowess with 162 passing yards, completing 8 of 14 attempts and tossing two touchdowns. One of his memorable passes was a 74-yard connection with Corey Crooms in the first quarter, which marked the receiver's only catch of the day.
The ground game was equally potent, as the team collectively rushed for a staggering 352 yards. Sean Tyler and Jaxson Kincaide both eclipsed the 100-yard mark in rushing, with Kincaide adding two touchdowns to his impressive tally.
The Broncos' defense excelled in containing the high-scoring Nevada offense that had garnered attention throughout the season. Western Michigan's defensive line tallied six sacks, nine tackles for loss, four quarterback hurries, and three crucial pass deflections.
Nevada faced difficulties, with starting quarterback Carson Strong sidelined as he prepared for the NFL Draft. Quarterback Nate Cox, who had seen limited snaps throughout the season, took the helm. Cox completed the game with 121 yards on 12 of 23 passing, accompanied by a touchdown.
Nevada's rushing game shone, with Devonte Lee gaining 85 yards on seven carries and securing a touchdown. Toa Taua, the brother of interim head coach Vai Taua, added 28 yards on 11 carries with a touchdown of his own.
The Quick Lane Bowl was ultimately controlled by Western Michigan, leading to a resounding 54-24 victory over the Nevada Wolf Pack. This win allowed the Broncos to bask in the glory of becoming the 2021 Quick Lane Bowl Champions.
MVP of the game: Sean Tyler, with an impressive performance of 146 rushing yards and a spectacular 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
The game kicked off at 11:00 AM and was broadcast on ESPN.
Passing leaders:
Rushing leaders:
Receiving leaders:
