The Northern Illinois Huskies were able to hold off Eastern Illinois’ second half comeback and claim an opening night win, topping the Panthers 34-27.
Eastern, trailing by seven, had the ball deep in Huskie territory as the clock was ticking down. As it hit seven seconds, the Panthers snapped it. Quarterback Jonah O’Brien hit Nile Hill over the middle for an eight yard gain but he was immediately downed by a Huskie player to end the game and preserve the win for NIU.
Early on the Huskies looked sharp offensively, building a 28-6 lead midway through the third quarter.