Ezekiel Combs Assistant Coach / Cornerbacks | Northern Michigan University Athletics Website
Ezekiel Combs Assistant Coach / Cornerbacks | Northern Michigan University Athletics Website
The Northern Michigan University football team faced a tough loss against Roosevelt on Saturday at the Superior Dome, with an overtime fumble leading to a 16-10 defeat. The Wildcats were in search of their first win of the season but fell short in extra time.
In overtime, Northern Michigan's third play saw a botched snap that resulted in a turnover. Roosevelt capitalized on this mistake, securing victory with an 11-yard touchdown run.
The Wildcats relied heavily on their running game, choosing to run on 48 out of 50 plays and accumulating 201 rushing yards. Jahi Wood led with 120 yards. However, NMU failed to complete any passes for the second consecutive game. In contrast, Roosevelt recorded 240 passing yards and added another 123 rushing yards.
Northern Michigan opened the scoring with a field goal from Michael Karlen after a lengthy drive. Both teams entered halftime tied at 3-3 following exchanged field goals and fumbles deep in opponent territory.
Roosevelt took the lead early in the third quarter with Cyress Zuell's four-yard touchdown run after an extensive drive. NMU responded in the fourth quarter when quarterback Aidan Hoard scored on a one-yard sneak, leveling the score at ten apiece.
In the final minutes of regulation, NMU started from their own eight-yard line but had to punt near midfield, giving Roosevelt another chance. Despite advancing past midfield thanks to a significant completion, Xavier Martinez made a crucial defensive stop for Northern Michigan.
Roosevelt missed a potential game-winning field goal as time expired, sending the match into overtime.
With possession first in overtime, NMU gained some ground before fumbling again. This turnover set up Roosevelt's winning touchdown by Cyress Zuell—marking their first Division II victory.
Adam Saleh matched for most tackles during the game with nine total while Jason Coulter contributed two tackles for loss.
Next Saturday, Northern Michigan will face off against Michigan Tech Huskies in Houghton for the Miner's Cup at noon; local coverage will be available on TV6.
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