UTEP vs. Northwestern Short Report | Sep 9, 2023
Ryan Field
Evanston, IL
Sep 9, 2023
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Game Recap
Northwestern Wildcats clinched a decisive 38-7 victory over the UTEP Miners, ending a 12-game losing streak that dated back to the 2022 season. The Wildcats showcased a well-rounded performance, dominating both offensively and defensively. UTEP initially took the lead early in the game with a touchdown pass from Gavin Hardison to Zach Fryar, but Northwestern quickly responded and controlled the game from the second quarter onwards.
The Wildcats scored 31 unanswered points, highlighted by three touchdowns in the third quarter, showing their offensive prowess. Ben Bryant and Ryan Hilinski led the charge with crucial touchdown passes while the defense made pivotal stops, including three interceptions. UTEP struggled to find consistency in their offense, leading to their defeat, as Northwestern's defense consistently applied pressure and stymied any momentum.
Key Plays:
Gavin Hardison (UTEP)
Hardison connected with Zach Fryar for a 4-yard touchdown, giving the Miners an early 7-0 lead. This initial score injected hope into the UTEP squad, setting the tone for what they hoped would be a competitive match.
Jack Lausch (Northwestern)
Lausch answered back quickly with a 6-yard rushing touchdown, tying the game and shifting momentum into Northwestern's favor.
Ben Bryant (Northwestern)
Bryant found Thomas Gordon in the end zone with an 18-yard touchdown pass, giving Northwestern a 14-7 lead and setting the stage for the Wildcats' dominant second half.
Ben Bryant (Northwestern)
Bryant capped off another drive with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, extending Northwestern's lead to 21-7, further demoralizing the Miners' defense.
Ryan Hilinski (Northwestern)
Hilinski threw a spectacular 85-yard touchdown pass to Joseph Himon II, which effectively put the game out of reach at 28-7, showcasing Northwestern’s explosive play capability.
Rod Heard II (Northwestern)
Heard's pivotal sack on Hardison led to a turnover on downs, halting any potential comeback by the Miners.
Jack Olsen (Northwestern)
Olsen's 40-yard field goal sealed the Wildcats' dominant performance, pushing the lead to 38-7.
Standout Players:
Ben Bryant (Northwestern, QB)
Bryant showcased exceptional accuracy and dual-threat capability, completing 11 of 17 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown, while also adding a rushing touchdown. His leadership was pivotal in Northwestern's second-half surge.
Cam Porter (Northwestern, RB)
Porter churned out tough yards throughout the game, rushing 17 times for 90 yards. His consistent advances on the ground kept the Wildcats' offense balanced and unpredictable.
Ryan Hilinski (Northwestern, QB)
Hilinski's 85-yard touchdown pass was a defining moment, contributing significantly to the scoreline and breaking the Miners' morale.
Rod Heard II (Northwestern, DB)
Heard's defensive prowess was on full display with a critical sack, 7 tackles, and a tackle for loss, fortifying the Wildcats' defense and thwarting UTEP's offensive efforts.
Cam Johnson (Northwestern, WR)
Johnson's 3 receptions for 51 yards came at crucial junctures, serving as key components in sustaining offensive drives and keeping UTEP's defense on their heels.
Gavin Hardison (UTEP, QB)
Despite throwing two interceptions, Hardison completed 17 of 25 passes for 192 yards and a touchdown. His early connection with Zach Fryar gave UTEP their only points and momentarily put the Miners ahead.
Jeremiah Ballard (UTEP, WR)
Ballard caught 4 passes for 92 yards, leading the Miners' receiving efforts and providing a rare bright spot in UTEP's offensive struggles.
References:
UTEP Miners vs. Northwestern Wildcats - Final Score - September 09, 2023 | FOX Sports
Northwestern uses valiant second half to snap 12-game losing streak in 38-7 win over UTEP Northwestern scores 38 unanswered points in win over UTEP
UTEP Miners vs. Northwestern Wildcats Live Score and Stats - September 9, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Team
1
2
3
4
T
UTEP Miners
7
0
0
0
7
Northwestern Wildcats
7
0
21
10
38
