Western Michigan threw away its chance for a GMAC Bowl win in the first quarter of the game. With Pine Bluff lined up in a Field Goal Block formation, WMU switched to an I Formation and ran a simple streak. QB Charles Harper lofted a quick pass to the goal line, but the receiver was just a half step behind the throw. The ball sailed off his outstretched fingers, and Pine Bluff took over on downs. The Bluff seemed to be in command of the game early on, but Western Michigan controlled the tempo by halftime. Turnovers would be the Bronco downfall though as Harper threw 5 interceptions, two to Paul Givens, and one to Pat Burnette to set up a PBU score. Offensively, PBU was adequate. Brent Golden threw one interception but played an otherwise conservative, heady game.