KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The cheers began before the show began. Hundreds of Western Michigan students chanting “Row The Boat, Row The Boat.” And when the hosts stepped onto the set they got even louder.
“The reception has been tremendous,” said College GameDay host Rece Davis. “I think the excitement that we’ve been able to sense since we made this decision has been palpable for us. So we’re excited.”
Davis, Samantha Ponder, Desmond Howard and David Pollack arrived in town Thursday night for Saturday’s College GameDay Live show. They — along with fellow hosts Kirk Herbstreit, Lee Corso, and Chris Facilla — will preview the 10-0 Broncos match-up vs. the Buffalo Bulls.
“I like coming to Kalamazoo,” said host and Michigan Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard. “I came hear a year ago and did one of the games at night. I mean, PJ Fleck has done a fantastic job with the program.”
The hosts said they like the direction the team is going under Coach Fleck’s leadership. It didn’t happen overnight, Davis said, but he’s a natural at his position. Fleck and the team spent the afternoon at Bronson Park, rallying the city behind Saturday’s big day.
“Even with the treacherous weather tomorrow morning, we think we’re going to have a good crowd out here,” said Davis. “With the way the Broncos have performed, they’re deserving of this moment in the spotlight.”
