News Summary
In a strong showing, the Grand Valley State University (GVSU) football team triumphed over Northern Michigan University (NMU) with a score of 35-7 at the Superior Dome. This victory improved GVSU’s season record to 4-1, while NMU remains winless at 0-6. After a tough first half, GVSU outscored NMU 21-0 in the third quarter, showcasing their resilience and skill. The Lakers’ defense also excelled, forcing five turnovers, leading to a decisive win as they prepare for their next matchup against Saginaw Valley State University.
Marquette, Michigan – The Grand Valley State University (GVSU) football team secured a decisive victory over Northern Michigan University (NMU), winning 35-7 at the Superior Dome on Saturday. The Lakers’ triumph improves their season record to 4-1, while the Wildcats remain winless at 0-6.
The game attracted an audience of 3,216 fans, and GVSU traveled 415 miles to compete in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Currently ranked eighth, the Lakers demonstrated resilience and determination, overcoming a slow start to dominate the second half of the game.
The scoring commenced with GVSU’s Andrew Schuster connecting on a 20-yard touchdown pass to Kellen Reed on a crucial fourth-and-5 play. However, the first half presented challenges for GVSU, as the team struggled offensively, resulting in two punts and an interception within their initial three possessions. NMU managed to tie the game at 7-7 late in the first half, scoring on a fourth down.
As the second half unfolded, GVSU significantly shifted momentum, scoring a total of 21 points in the third quarter alone. Contributions included Zak Olejniczak’s 24-yard touchdown pass to Lynn Wyche-El, followed by a 14-yard touchdown run from Paschal Jolman. Schuster threw a second touchdown pass to Kenyon Owens, capping the quarter’s scoring at 28-7. In the final quarter, Kenneth Jones added a 4-yard touchdown to solidify the score at 35-7.
In terms of individual performance, Schuster completed 13 of 22 passes for 161 yards, despite one interception. Olejniczak accounted for 44 yards on 2 of 3 passing, while Brady Drogosh completed 1 of 3 passes for an additional 15 yards. On the ground, Drogosh led GVSU with 40 rushing yards on three carries, while Kellen Reed had an impressive receiving game, totaling three receptions for 72 yards.
The Lakers’ defense proved formidable, forcing a total of five turnovers throughout the game. Elijah Baker led the defensive efforts with seven tackles, while Jimmy Downs contributed six tackles, including two for a loss. The defensive unit also recorded three interceptions, with players Jason Hardy, Chris Little, and Tommy Barnett each making a critical pick.
GVSU’s next matchup will be against Saginaw Valley State University, which currently holds a record of 3-3. The game is scheduled to take place at Lubbers Stadium and is set to feature Kids Day festivities.
This victory marks an important milestone for the Lakers as they look to maintain momentum and improve their position in the standings as the season progresses.
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Additional Resources
- Northern Michigan University Athletics
- Wikipedia: Grand Valley State Lakers football
- MLive: GVSU Football Wins
- Google Search: Grand Valley State University football
- Holland Sentinel: GVSU Forces Turnovers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
