UP Gazette

The Northern Michigan University (NMU) football team is set to host Roosevelt University in a game at the Superior Dome on Saturday. Both teams are seeking their first victory of the season, with NMU standing at 0-6 and Roosevelt at 0-5. This match marks the first-ever meeting between the two schools.

Fans can follow the action through NMU's social media accounts on X, formerly known as Twitter, for updates during the game. The opening kick is scheduled for 1 p.m.

Shane Richardson, presumably a coach or representative from NMU, commented on the team's approach: "We wanted to make sure our mentality of approaching last weekend's game had a courageous thought of attacking the opponent and coming off the ball hard…This week, we have to focus on how we play and not who we play."

Last weekend, NMU faced Grand Valley State and lost 49-17. Despite heavy rain affecting passing plays, NMU managed to gain 206 rushing yards compared to GVSU's 288 yards. Vince Martin led NMU's ground efforts with a career-high of 82 yards and one touchdown.

NMU fields one of the youngest teams in college football with a significant portion of their roster being underclassmen. Jahi Wood ranks fifth in conference rushing statistics while Elizin Rouse ranks ninth. Nico Lukkarinen has three touchdown runs ranking him in the top ten within the conference.

Mitch Larkin is third in tackles this season within GLIAC standings after leading last season with 118 tackles. Michael Love has achieved four touchdown catches this season, placing him second in that category within GLIAC. Michael Karlen remains perfect on field goals and extra points this year.

Roosevelt University enters its first Division II season as part of GLIAC but hasn't secured any wins yet. Their quarterback Carson Budke has thrown for over 1,100 yards along with five touchdowns and interceptions each. Keonta Nixon stands out among receivers with notable yardage and three touchdowns.

Despite struggles in rushing yardage where they rank last in GLIAC, Roosevelt maintains discipline as they are noted for having fewest penalties so far this season.