The Broncos started the game with the ball, and their offense immediately came out looking like the dominant offense they have been all season. They marched 78 yards on just six plays capping the drive with a 32-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Zach Terrell to junior running back Jarvion Franklin, giving Western an early 7-0 lead.
NIU’s first possession turned out to be uneventful, giving the Broncos the ball back with the opportunity to widen the gap. NIU’s defense would cause the Broncos’ offense to stall this time, giving them the ball back, with a chance to tie the game.