Storylines
Best start since 19882. Dante Love's career-ending injuryBall State's top receiver's career was cut short after Love suffered a cervical spine fracture at Indiana University.
3. First BCS victoryBall State's 42-20 victory at Indiana University was the program's first win against a BCS team in 43 games.
4. AP votesThe Cardinals are on the verge of cracking the top 25 in the AP Poll with 38 votes and a No. 29 ranking this week.
5. MiQuale LewisLewis gets overshadowed in Ball State's explosive offense, but the redshirt sophomore is ranked in the nation's top five in rushing yards and touchdowns.
Obstacles
Central Michigan2. Love's injurySo far coaches and players have done an excellent job of maintaining their focus.
3. The hypeThe expectations on this team will only grow heavier each week it stays undefeated.
4. Juggling the scheduleBall State doesn't have a Saturday game during the last month of the season.
5. Close gamesAt some point, Ball State will play a game that goes down to the final possessions.
Fan reactions
Michael Key, freshman2. Matthew Kindig, grad student"It's exciting and good for Ball State. It's nicer to be winning than losing."
3. Barb Weber, senior"It's great for the school."
4. Cory Book, freshman"It's awesome seeing as how they beat IU for the first time. They've faced some good teams this year. I wish them the best of luck in the next few weeks."
5. Jincy Gibson, junior"It's great. I went to my first football game this weekend. It's a good reason to go to the games since they're winning."
Strengths
Well-balanced offense2. ExperienceThe Cardinals started 10 seniors and a 32-year-old junior Saturday.
3. Weak scheduleTwo of the three toughest opponents are already over with.
4. Chris MillerMiller is the best punter in the country and has a huge affect on field position.
5. Turnover ratioTurnover ratioBall State is ranked third in the MAC with a plus-three turnover margin.
Weaknesses
Run defense2. Kickoff returnBrady Hoke hasn't been happy with his kickoff return teams all season.
3. Upset alertBall State has a history in previous seasons of playing down to weaker opponents, like against Miami last year.
4. Tight end strugglesDarius Hill hasn't played to the best of his ability this season.
5. Young receiversDante Love's departure leaves a true freshman and two sophomores as the Cardinals top three wide receivers.
Read More
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