Green defeats White at NMU spring game
Courtesy of NMU Athletics
MARQUETTE, Mich. – The Northern Michigan University football team wrapped up its spring season with the annual spring game from the Superior Dome on Saturday (April 20). Green (offense) defeated White (defense) 42-38, using a special scoring system.
Green scored two touchdowns in the game, both in the second quarter. Sophomore running back Joe Neeb had a two-yard dash to the endzone early in the quarter. Senior quarterback Cody Scepaniak and senior wide receiver Christian Jessie hooked up for a 45-yard touchdown later in the frame and redshirt freshman Jason Seeke made a 41-yard field goal before the half. Green led 36-17 at the break.
White made a charge in the second half, creating numerous big defensive plays. Redshirt freshman defensive back Keshawn Walker had a fumble recovery in the third quarter after pulling in an interception in the first half. Sophomore lineman Nolan Davenport sacked Scepaniak in the third. Sophomore lineman Steven Chuhran and redshirt freshman lineman Rami Jergess combined for a sack in the endzone, resulting in a safety for White. Junior lineman Jordan Adediran intercepted Scepaniak late in the fourth after the ball was tipped at the line of scrimmage.
Kids warmed up with the ‘Cats before the game and one lucky fan had a 60-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter.
A fan also had a chance to make a 22-yard field goal in the fourth but hit it wide right.
NMU honored the 1965-72 football Wildcats who returned to campus for a reunion. College Football, and NMU Sports, Hall of Famer Lloyd Carr, who coached at the University of Michigan for 13 years, was a featured member of the reunion. Other NMU Sports Hall of Famers at the reunion were Byron Johnson, Tom Watson, Richard Ambrosino, Guy Falkenhagen, Tom Peters, Dennis Porter and Jack Spuhler along with other teammates and football contributors.
The GLIAC and MHSAA held an officials clinic in conjunction with the game. There were numerous officials in training on the field, during live action.
The football team had a lift-a-thon on Friday (April 19) night at Vandament Arena. Sophomore running back Keon Collier won the pull-up contest, junior offensive lineman Brad Kaatz won the bench press contest and sophomore wide receiver Trey Hipke won the pie-eating contest.