Fayette, Iowa – The Northern State University football team fell to Upper Iowa University, 17-6, in the 2015 opener. The Wolves drop to 0-1 on the year, as they were unable to pull together a solid offensive attack.
 
The Wolves opened up the scoring in the first after a five minute drive from NSU starter Kyle Lavand. Adrian Krupka entered for his second field goal attempt of the day connecting from 41 yards out. Northern was up 3-0 heading into the final three minutes of the quarter.
 
Upper Iowa answered back in the second quarter with a touchdown and field goal of their own. Trailing 10-3, Northern took advantage and cut the lead to four with Krupka's second long range shot, a 42 yard attempt, of the day.  
 
The two team's entered the half with Upper Iowa on top 10-6. The Northern offensive could not find a jump start in the second half, with just under 11 minutes of possession. The Wolves defense fought to keep NSU in the game stopping Upper Iowa on the goal line late in the third, while forcing one fumble and recording two quarterback sacks.
 
Devin Olson led the team with 13.5 tackles and 2.5 tackles for a loss, for a total of 34 yards. Channing Barber and Matt Thorson were second on the team with 5.5 tackles for a loss.
 
Junior quarterback Christian McAlvain led the team with 54 yards rushing and 75 yards passing. Conner Doherty tallied a total of 69 yards on seven receptions, followed by Tyrell Anderson with 44 yards on three receptions. Anderson also recorded the team's longest kickoff return of 36 yards, late in the second quarter.
 
NSU had their chances in the game, however was struggled to convert on their down with a 4-of-14 mark. Three interceptions and seven penalties for 47 yards made the difference in the game for NSU.
 
Northern looks to bounce back in their home opener next Saturday versus No. 1 Minnesota State. Game time is set for 6 p.m. between the Wolves and the Warriors from the Swish.