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Northwestern running back Damien Anderson (20) tries to elude Northern Illinois' Demerist Whitfield (29) in
the first quarter. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) |
>EVANSTON, Ill. (AP) (August 31, 2000) -- Northern Illinois lost its opening game of the 2000 season, a 35-17
loss to Northwestern in Evanston, Ill.
The Wildcats had back-to-back first-quarter scoring drives of 57 and 95 yards against
the Huskies.
Northwestern unveiled a new wide-open,
no-huddle offense Thursday night, two defensive stands and Sam Simmons' explosive
kick returns sparked a 35-17 victory over Northern Illinois.
On a hot and humid night, Damien Anderson gained 88 yards on 20 carries and scored
twice, and Zak Kustok, often throwing out of the shotgun, threw two TD
pass in the season opener for both schools.
The speedy and elusive Simmons, who missed the final month last season with a broken
clavicle, had more than 200 all-purpose yards on kickoff returns, punt
returns and one reception, constantly giving the Wildcats good field position.
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Northern Illinois head coach Joe Novak watches as his team plays Northwestern in the first in Evanston, Ill. (AP
Photo/Ted S. Warren) |