The team's statistical leaders included Derrick Vickers with 1,345 passing yards, Jerry Seymour with 1,117 rushing yards, and Justin Harper with 441 receiving yards.[5] Defensive back James King was selected at the end of the 2003 season as the team's most valuable player.[6]
On December 17, 2003, Mike DeBord resigned as the Chippewas' head football coach. He compiled a 12-34 record in four years in the position.[7]
Rankings from Coaches' Poll released prior to the game
Roster[]
2003 Central Michigan Chippewas football team roster
Players
Coaches
Offense
6 Isaac Brown HB 6-1 190 Fr./Fr. Saginaw/Bridgeport
68 Jay Gillette OL 6-3 290 So./Fr. Aurora, Ill.Waubonsie
71 Michael Raffaeli OL 6-5 290 Fr./Fr. Indianapolis, Ind./Lawrence North
72 Jeff Jenerou OT 6-7 297 Jr./So. Manistique/Same
75 Troy Golba OL 6-4 290 So./Fr