The team's statistical leaders included quarterback Jeff Bender with 1,309 passing yards, tailback Donnie Riley with 1,128 rushing yards, and Mark Hopkins with 433 receiving yards.[5] Bender received the MAC's Freshman of the Year award,[6] and linebacker George Ricumstrict received the team's most valuable player award.[7] Four Central Michigan players (offensive guard Chuck Pellegrini, tailback Donnie Riley, linebacker Mark Dennis, and defensive lineman Scott Alferink) received first-team All-MAC honors.[8]