The game between NIU football vs Ball State football match player stats tells us so much about how exciting the game was. Fans cheered loudly as both teams tried their best to win. The players ran fast, passed the ball, and made big plays.
When we look at the NIU football vs Ball State football match player stats, we can see who scored, who tackled, and who helped the most. This blog will show you the top players, their scores, and what made the game fun and special to watch.
Full Game Recap: NIU Football vs Ball State Football Match Player Stats
The game between NIU and Ball State was a close and exciting battle. Both teams played hard, showing great skill and determination. Fans were treated to a match full of action and suspense.
In the first half, Ball State took an early lead with a touchdown pass from quarterback Kadin Semonza to tight end Tanner Koziol. NIU responded with a strong drive, culminating in a 34-yard touchdown run by running back Antario Brown, tying the game. Ball State added two field goals and another touchdown, while NIU managed a 54-yard touchdown pass from Ethan Hampton to Cam Thompson, bringing the halftime score to 19-14 in favor of Ball State.
The second half was equally intense. Ball State extended their lead with a 50-yard field goal. NIU fought back with another touchdown run by Brown but failed on a two-point conversion attempt. In the final moments, NIU took the lead with a 47-yard field goal by Kanon Woodill. However, Ball State’s kicker, Jackson Courville, sealed the victory with a career-long 52-yard field goal as time expired, ending the game at 25-23 in favor of Ball State.
Top Performers in NIU vs Ball State: Who Stood Out the Most
Several players delivered standout performances in the NIU football vs Ball State football match. For Ball State, quarterback Kadin Semonza completed 20 of 33 passes for 211 yards and two touchdowns, both to tight end Tanner Koziol, who had nine receptions for 78 yards. Kicker Jackson Courville was instrumental, making four field goals, including the game-winning 52-yarder.
On the NIU side, running back Antario Brown showcased his talent with two rushing touchdowns, including a 34-yard run. Wide receiver Cam Thompson had a career-high 128 receiving yards on eight catches, including a 54-yard touchdown reception. Quarterback Ethan Hampton contributed with 168 passing yards and a touchdown.
Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown of NIU vs Ball State Football Stats
- First Quarter: Ball State opened the scoring with a 3-yard touchdown pass from Semonza to Koziol. NIU responded with a 34-yard touchdown run by Brown, ending the quarter tied at 7-7.
- Second Quarter: Ball State added two field goals and another touchdown pass from Semonza to Koziol. NIU kept pace with a 54-yard touchdown pass from Hampton to Thompson, bringing the halftime score to 19-14 in favor of Ball State.
- Third Quarter: The only score came from a 50-yard field goal by Courville, extending Ball State’s lead to 22-14.
- Fourth Quarter: NIU narrowed the gap with a 6-yard touchdown run by Brown but missed the two-point conversion. NIU briefly took the lead with a 47-yard field goal by Woodill, but Ball State clinched the win with Courville’s 52-yard field goal as time expired, finalizing the score at 25-23.
Passing, Rushing, and Defense: Key Stats From NIU vs Ball State
- Passing: Ball State’s Semonza threw for 211 yards and two touchdowns. NIU’s Hampton passed for 168 yards and one touchdown.
- Rushing: NIU’s Brown had 62 rushing yards with two touchdowns. Ball State’s rushing attack totaled 170 yards, contributing to their balanced offense.
- Defense: Ball State’s defense forced three turnovers, including two interceptions and a fumble recovery. NIU’s defense managed to block a field goal attempt and had nine tackles from Santana Banner.
Big Plays That Changed the Game: NIU Football vs Ball State Review
Several pivotal moments defined the outcome of the NIU football vs Ball State football match. In the second quarter, Ball State capitalized on an interception and a fumble recovery, converting both turnovers into points. NIU’s 54-yard touchdown pass before halftime kept them within striking distance.
In the final minutes, NIU’s blocked field goal attempt and subsequent 47-yard field goal gave them a brief lead. However, Ball State’s quick 39-yard drive set up Courville’s game-winning 52-yard field goal, sealing the dramatic victory.
Conclusion
This game between NIU and Ball State was really fun and close. Both teams played with big hearts and lots of energy. NIU had some strong plays, like long passes and fast runs. But Ball State stayed calm and kicked a super long field goal to win at the end. It was exciting from start to finish!
We also saw many great players show their best moves. The stats tell us how hard they tried and how well they did. From touchdowns to tackles, every moment mattered. If you like football, this match gave you everything—action, drama, and awesome plays!
FAQs
Q: Who won the NIU football vs Ball State game?
A: Ball State won the game with a final score of 25-23.
Q: Who was the top scorer for NIU?
A: Antario Brown was the top scorer with two rushing touchdowns.
Q: What was the winning play?
A: Jackson Courville kicked a 52-yard field goal for Ball State in the final seconds.
Q: Who caught the longest pass for NIU?
A: Cam Thompson caught a 54-yard touchdown pass.
Q: Did the game have any turnovers?
A: Yes, Ball State’s defense made two interceptions and had one fumble recovery.
