Eastern Wayne Today

The Wayne State University football team secured a 41-17 victory against Northern Michigan University on Saturday, ending a nine-game road losing streak. The match took place at the Superior Dome in Marquette, Michigan.

In the first quarter, Northern Michigan's Noah Hoffman scored the opening touchdown with a 52-yard run. Wayne State responded with a safety when Jaden Davis and Gus Taylor tackled the NMU quarterback in the end zone. Despite a punt from Wayne State, Northern Michigan extended their lead to 10-2 with a field goal by Michael Karlen.

Wayne State's Griffin Milovanski scored a 38-yard field goal before halftime, reducing NMU's lead to 10-5. At halftime, NMU led in total offense with 146 yards compared to Wayne State's 62.

The second half saw Wayne State take control. Justin Cox connected with Dion Brown Jr. for a 34-yard touchdown pass, giving them their first lead of the game. Cox later found Nathaniel Eberly-Rodriguez for another touchdown, extending their advantage to 19-10.

Kendall Williams contributed significantly in the fourth quarter with two rushing touchdowns, including one from 49 yards out. Brayden McKenna added another score for Wayne State late in the game.

Wayne State outperformed Northern Michigan in total yardage, particularly in the second half where they gained 266 yards compared to NMU's 122. Kendall Williams led all rushers with 121 yards and two touchdowns.

For Northern Michigan, Noah Hoffman rushed for 88 yards and one touchdown while Aidan Hoard passed for 165 yards and one late touchdown but also threw two interceptions.

Notably, Griffin Milovanski joined Bob Klick as only the second player since 1981 to make five field goals of at least 40 yards in a season for Wayne State.

Wayne State will host Grand Valley State next Saturday for their final home game of the season where they will honor nineteen seniors during pre-game ceremonies.