Rapid Recap: NIU blows out UMass 45-3

Northern Star File Photo

NIU football sophomore running back Telly Johnson Jr. (45) searches for a gap before rushing left for 53 yards and claiming the first touchdown of the match against Ball State University at Huskie Stadium. NIU defeated the University of Massachusetts by a score of 45-3 on Wednesday. (Northern Star File Photo)

By Northern Star Sports Staff

Nov 12, 2025

NIU football (3-7, 2-4 MAC) blew out the University of Massachusetts Minutemen (0-10, 0-6 MAC) by a score of 45-3 on Wednesday night.

FIRST HALF

UMass began with possession of the ball after NIU deferred the opening kickoff. The Minutemen found little luck after they were forced to punt on their opening possession of the game.

After blocking UMass’ punt attempt, the Huskies’ gained prime field position with redshirt junior quarterback Jalen Macon under center.

Failing to score a touchdown, NIU gained an early 3-0 lead after senior kicker Andrew Glass booted a 37-yard field goal. After forcing yet another punt, NIU reassumed possession of the ball.

The Huskies capitalized on their newfound momentum, as Macon put NIU up 10-0 with a 13-yard rushing touchdown.

Despite marching to the redzone, UMass failed to bring points after failing to convert on a fourth and two situation.

On the ensuing drive, NIU extended its lead to 17-0. Connecting for a 67-yard passing touchdown, Macon rocketed a pass to redshirt freshman running back Elijah Porter to give the Huskies a comfortable lead ahead of halftime.

UMass again left the following drive fruitless after missing a field goal.

NIU proceeded to take advantage of the Minutemen’s failed drive, gaining a 24-0 lead. Redshirt senior running back Chavon Wright logged the score, reaching the endzone on a 1-yard rush.

After reclaiming possession, UMass handed the Huskies the ball after fumbling heading into the two-minute warning. NIU gained possession at the Minutemen 13-yard line.

After regaining possession, NIU extended its lead to 31-0 after Macon scored on a 1-yard touchdown run. UMass failed to score, leaving the Minutemen scoreless heading into halftime.

SECOND HALF

The Huskies started the second half with the ball. Macon scored his fourth touchdown of the night on the sixth play of NIU’s opening drive, breaking away for a 36-yard run to give the Huskies a 38-0 lead.

After going for it on fourth and five, UMass committed a turnover on downs to give NIU the ball back once again.

NIU freshman quarterback Brady Davidson proceeded to enter the game. On his first play of the game, Davidson rocketed a 31-yard touchdown pass to sophomore wide receiver Gary Givens, giving the Huskies a comfortable 45-0 lead.

The score remained dormant for nearly 17 minutes before UMass narrowed NIU’s lead to 45-3 with a field goal midway through the fourth quarter.

NIU was then able to run out the clock, eventually kneeling out the 45-3 victory.