The Northern Michigan Wildcats opened their season at home in the Superior Dome, only to see the Tiffin Dragons dominate the contest with a 35-7 victory.
Home Opener at the Superior Dome
Early in the game, NMU’s defense limited Tiffin to just 58 yards in the first quarter, and a timely interception by Liam Oczkowski forced a punt that swung momentum back toward the Wildcats.
However, the Wildcats’ offense struggled to sustain drives, going three-and-out and missing a field goal attempt in the third quarter, while running back Noah Dobert provided the only spark with an 11-yard touchdown run and finished the half with 113 yards on 18 carries, accounting for more than half of NMU’s total offense.
Tiffin’s attack was led by quarterback Kyle Antoine, whose 267 passing yards and two touchdowns accounted for 454 total yards, and a late second‑half strike to Jowy Zalewski capped a three‑touchdown second half that stretched the lead.
A turnover on downs in the third quarter set up a short run by Daniel Weems, extending Tiffin’s advantage, while NMU’s defense continued to hold strong early before fatigue set in.
The Wildcats now turn their attention to the road, traveling to face Division I St. Thomas on September 12 as they look to bounce back from the opening setback.