The 1998 Central Oklahoma Bronchos football team represented the University of Central Oklahoma during the 1998 NCAA Division II football season as members of the Lone Star Conference. This was the 93rd season of Broncho football. The Bronchos played their home games at Wantland Stadium in Edmond, Oklahoma, which has been Central's home stadium since 1965.[1] The team was headed by coach Gary Howard in his 22nd season as head coach. The Bronchos finished the regular season with an undefeated 11–0 record and the Lone Star Conference Championship.[2] The Bronchos also made the program's second appearance in the NCAA Division II playoffs. Entering the playoffs the Bronchos were the number one ranked team in the country.[3] The Bronchos they won their first-round game over NAIA Football National Championship with a win over Chadron State, but lost their second-round game against Texas A&M–Kingsville. In 2000, the NCAA forced Texas A&M–Kingsville
to forfeit their entire 1998 season due to use of inelgible players.[4] As a result, the University of Central Oklahoma officially recognizes this season as an undefeated 13–0.[5]
The Bronchos began the 1998 season ranked 13th in the Division II Committee poll. They rose to a tie for 5th by the end of the month.[9][10][11][12] The Bronchos would rise to No. 2 by mid October.[13][14] The Bronchos would gain the number one ranking after the Ouachita Baptist game and hold the top spot until the playoffs.[15][16][17]
Ranking movements Legend:██ Increase in ranking ██ Decrease in ranking ( ) = First-place votes