BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — In a tightly contested matchup, Northern Illinois emerged victorious against Bowling Green with a score of 17-7 on Saturday, thanks to a pivotal performance by quarterback Josh Holst and running back Gavin Williams.

As the game entered the fourth quarter with Northern Illinois trailing 7-6, Holst made a significant impact, scoring a 26-yard rushing touchdown just seven seconds into the quarter. The team’s momentum continued as they successfully executed a two-point conversion, with Grayson Barnes connecting with Isaac Hatfield for the crucial play.

Kanon Woodill then extended Northern Illinois’ lead to two scores when he successfully booted a 27-yard field goal with six minutes remaining in the game, adding to his earlier successful kicks, which were from 46 and 21 yards.

Northern Illinois improved their season record to 4-2 overall and 2-0 in the Mid-American Conference, marking their second consecutive victory following a remarkable 16-14 triumph over Notre Dame.

Bowling Green, with a record of 2-4 and 1-1 in conference play, initially took the lead in the first quarter. Quarterback Connor Bazelak connected on an 11-yard touchdown pass to Harold Fannin Jr., giving the Falcons a 7-3 advantage with 6:55 remaining in the opening quarter.

This win not only bolstered Northern Illinois’ standing but also leveled the all-time series between the two teams at 12 wins apiece.