Ohio University to represent Mid-American Conference in 2007 GMAC Bowl

GMAC Bowl President Jerry Silverstein announced today that the Ohio University Bobcats have accepted an invitation to participate in the Eighth Annual GMAC Bowl.

“This is Ohio University’s first trip to the GMAC Bowl, and we are excited to have them here,” said Silverstein. “The Bobcats have had a great season and we’re looking forward to some thrilling post-season action from them, as well.”

The Bobcats’ (9-3, 7-1 MAC) victory over Miami (Ohio) this weekend was their seventh straight win. This season marks their longest winning streak and most wins in a season since the 1968 team went 10-1. Ohio University plays Central Michigan this Thursday, November 30, on ESPN in the MAC Championship Game.

Running back Kalvin McRae has become a stand-out player over the past few years, becoming the fourth all-time rusher in school history. This season alone, the junior has rushed for 1,139 yards, and he still has two games to play this year. On the other side of the line, the Bobcats boast a defense that is ranked in the top 25 in the country, allowing an average of only 291.6 yards per game.

“It’s a great time for Ohio University,” said athletic director Kirby Hocutt. “This is the first time in 38 years that we have received a bowl invitation. We’re extremely excited about coming to the GMAC Bowl and being a part of its great history and tradition in Mobile. It’s an honor to accept the GMAC Bowl’s invitation and we look forward to our trip to Mobile.”

The Ohio University Bobcats will face the runner-up from the Conference USA Championship game, which will be played Friday, December 1, 2006, in Houston. The conference championship pits Houston against the University of Southern Mississippi in a nationally-televised game.

The Eighth Annual GMAC Bowl will be played on January 7, 2007, at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Alabama. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN. Kick-off is set for 7:00 p.m. CST.

Visit the GMAC Bowl website at www.gmacbowl.com for more information. Order your tickets today at the GMAC Bowl office (251-635-0011, 1000 Hillcrest Road, Suite 115) or Springdale Travel (251-476-5095, 1087 Downtowner Blvd. in Mobile). The GMAC Bowl has had six straight sell-outs.