History of the Cardinals

The Ball State Cardinals have a long and storied history of success in NCAA sports. The school joined the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in 1973 and has become one of the most successful teams since then. They have won numerous championships over their years as members, including four MAC football titles and two women’s basketball titles.

In addition to these successes on the field, they are also known for producing some of college sports' best players over time. The San Francisco 49ers drafted quarterback Nate Davis after setting several passing records while at Ball State; wide receiver Dante Love is still remembered fondly for his incredible catches during his career with them; former running back Michael Lewis holds many all-time rushing records that still stand today; current NBA player Trey Burke played point guard for them before being selected by Minnesota Timberwolves with 9th overall pick in 2013 draft; even legendary coach Pete Lembo started as head coach here from 2010 to 2014 before taking a job at Maryland Terrapins!

Ball State's recent successes include reaching bowl games three times since joining FBS ranks 2009 season - 2011 Military Bowl vs. UCF Knights, where they fell 35–19 but had a good showing against a formidable opponent, 2015 GoDaddy Bowl vs. Arkansas St Red Wolves which ended 23–20 loss overtime thriller & 2018 Dollar General Bowl vs. Troy Trojans ending 31–21 victory. All this shows just how far the program came under the direction of athletic director Mark Sandy who took the helm in 2006. He led the charge to make the Cardinals competitive again within MAC & beyond!