The Big Ten proved too difficult to overcome once again, as the NIU wrestling team dropped a 21-13 decision Friday at Northwestern.

The Wildcats (1-0) avenged last season’s 21-12 loss and dealt NIU (0-2) its second straight loss against a Big Ten opponent. The Huskies lost their Nov. 28 season home opener to Wisconsin.

NIU junior Josh Wooton made his regular-season debut at 141 pounds and suffered a 15-3 major decision defeat to NU’s Ryan Lang to start the match.

Sophomores Mike Grimes (149 pounds), Johnny Galloway (165 pounds) and Joe Sapp (285 pounds) kept the dual close, winning their matches by no more than two points each. But three major decision victories by Northwestern sealed the match.

“I’ve seen us wrestle better,” NIU coach Dave Grant said. “Sapp had an outstanding win over a ranked guy. Sam [Hiatt] looked tough and we got solid contributions from Grimes and Galloway.”

Senior Sam Hiatt closed out the meet with the most lopsided win of the evening for the Huskies. Hiatt, ranked No. 13 in the nation in his weight class, contributed a 10-2 major decision over NU’s Jarred Mercado at 133 pounds.