Eastern Michigan competed as a member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC) West Division, were coached by Ron English, and played their homes game at Rynearson Stadium.

[6] [8] EMU's opening game was originally scheduled for 7 pm on Saturday, September 3.

Due to severe storms in the area, which caused problems at football games throughout the Midwest, including the cancellation of the Western Michigan at University of Michigan game near the end of the third quarter,[9] the kickoff was first postponed until 8:30 p.m., then to 9:30 p.m., and finally to noon on Sunday, with free admission offered.

[10] After a slow start by the EMU offense, which saw junior quarterback Alex Gillett throw an interception returned for a touchdown on the Eagles' first offensive play, EMU took charge of the game in the second quarter, scoring touchdowns on four of their next five drives while holding Howard to just 13 net yards on their next six possessions.

[11] EMU's offense was led by running backs Dominique Sherrer and Javonti Greene, each gained 120 yards and a touchdown in 14 carries, while Justin Cudworth led EMU's defense with 13 tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble.