North Michigan News

The Northern Michigan University (NMU) football team commenced their 2024 season on Thursday night at the Superior Dome, facing a challenging opponent in the No. 17 ranked Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs. The Wildcats were defeated with a final score of 35-7.

The game began with a strong defensive effort from NMU, highlighted by a sack from Jhermari Mabry that forced the Bulldogs into a four-down stand. However, NMU's offense struggled to maintain this momentum and turned over the ball via an interception on their third play. Minnesota Duluth capitalized on this opportunity, scoring a touchdown to lead 6-0 within the first ten minutes.

Throughout the first half, NMU's offense had difficulty finding its rhythm. Despite these struggles, the defense managed to keep the game close, with NMU trailing 13-0 at halftime.

In the second half, NMU had an opportunity to reduce the deficit but failed to capitalize after going three-and-out. Minnesota Duluth extended their lead with another touchdown at 8:25 in the third quarter, making it 21-0. By the end of the third quarter, UMD had further increased their lead to 28-0.

Early in the fourth quarter, Chuck Gilbert III scored for UMD with a 56-yard run, widening their lead to 35-0. NMU responded with a drive that culminated in Aidan Hoard connecting with Michael Love for a 15-yard touchdown pass, marking NMU’s only score of the night.

Defensively for NMU, Mitch Larkin led all players with 11 tackles—nine of which came in the first half—following his leading performance in tackles last season in GLIAC. Tim Shannon contributed nine tackles while Jhermari Mabry recorded two tackles for loss.

Statistically, Minnesota Duluth outgained Northern Michigan significantly with a total yardage of 562 compared to NMU’s 112 yards. UMD’s Kyle Walljasper threw for 312 yards and four touchdowns. For NMU, freshman Jahi Wood was notable on offense with a net gain of 22 yards on the ground.

Despite the loss, NMU maintained discipline by incurring only one penalty throughout the game. Owen Halverson also performed well as punter, averaging 42.6 yards per punt and placing one inside UMD’s five-yard line.

Looking ahead, NMU will travel next Thursday for their first-ever matchup against Kentucky Wesleyan in Kentucky. The game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m.

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