Kent State (3-8, 2-5 Mid-American Conference) could not overcome a 17-0 deficit in the first quarter, falling to Central Michigan (6-5, 5-2 MAC), 27-13.

The Flashes fought back in the second quarter to make it a tight contest, scoring 14 unanswered points, but the terrible first quarter start was too much to overcome.

The Chippewas outmatched the Flashes in almost every statistical category, dominating in total yards 442-to-278.

Junior quarterback Cooper Rush led the way for Central Michigan with 337 yards and one touchdown on 20-of-34 passing.

Both junior Colon Reardon and freshman George Bollas saw ample time under center for the Flashes combining for 9-of-26 passing, 101 yards and one touchdown.

Tonight’s game was senior night for 14 seniors, including Jason Bitsko.

Bitsko died from an enlarged heart prior to the start of the 2014 season.

The Flashes final game of the season will be on the road against rival Akron in the Wagon Wheel challenge. Kickoff is at noon Friday, Nov. 21.

Stephen Means is a sports reporter for The Kent Stater. Contact him at [email protected].