Kent State built a 14-0 lead in the first quarter but couldn’t withstand No. 14 Western Michigan’s offensive firepower in a 37-21 loss at Dix Stadium Tuesday night.

The Flashes went without senior safety Nate Holley, who’s been suspended indefinitely after his arrest over the weekend. Holly’s charged with first-degree felony kidnapping and his preliminary hearing begins Thursday. He’s currently out on a $50,000 bond.

Head coach Paul Haynes told reporters after the game he was “not talking about Nate.”

University spokesman Eric Mansfield offered a university statement Monday and said, “We are aware of the situation and take this matter very seriously. He has been suspended from the team indefinitely.”

The Broncos (10-0, 6-0 Mid-American Conference) rushed for 329 yards on 64 carries against the Flashes (3-7, 2-4 MAC), which is the highest rushing total that Kent State has given up all year. The Broncos were led on the ground by junior running back Jarvion Franklin, who rushed for 134 yards and a touchdown on 31 carries. Senior running back Fabian Johnson contributed with 125 yards and a touchdown, while senior quarterback Zach Terrell and freshman running back Davon Tucker each added a touchdown on the ground.

Fifth-year linebacker Nick Cuthbert led the Flashes in tackles with 19, but no other member of the Kent State defense recorded double-digit tackles.

Henry Palattella is a sports reporter. Contact him at [email protected]