Northwestern (3-0) started and ended the first half strongly against Maine (3-0) at Ryan Field today, entering the break with a 14-0 lead in spite of an underwhelming overall performance.

First Quarter: After a Maine three-and-out began the game, NU methodically drove down the field for a nine-play, 76-yard scoring drive that culminated in a 27-yard touchdown catch and run from senior Kain Colter to junior Tony Jones.

Apparently unfazed, Maine advanced deep into NU territory, but senior Tyler Scott blocked a 32-yard field goal attempt, and the Black Bears came away scoreless.

A succession of punts followed, and the quarter closed with Maine pinned deep in its own territory.

Second Quarter: Maine escaped from a difficult position but missed a 38-yard field goal, failing again to put points on the scoreboard. After a third consecutive NU punt, the Black Bears moved the ball past midfield, this time turning the ball over on downs at the Cats’ 30-yard line.

With 4 minutes to play in the half, NU’s offense briefly snapped back to vitality, as Colter rushed twice for 34 yards to lead the Cats to field goal range. But a sack pushed NU back, and two plays later, Colter’s pass deflected off of Jones’ hands and into the arms of Maine junior Axel Ofori.

The Cats quickly returned the favor. Senior Damien Proby jumped in front of a Black Bears pass and returned the pick 49 yards for NU’s second touchdown. Maine ran down the half’s final 42 seconds, and the Cats took their two-score advantage to the locker room.

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