Battle of undefeated teams ends with Kaneland on top

THE SKINNY

The battle of two unbeatens went to Kaneland in the Northern Illinois Big 12 opener for both squads. A game which saw each team return opening kickoffs to start the game ultimately went the hosts Knights’ way as they scored 35 unanswered points.

TURNING POINT

Trailing 20-15, Kaneland quarterback Drew David connected with John Pruett on a 34-yard touchdown pass as time expired in the first half.

THE STAR

Pruett proved to be the big-play receiver for the Knights, adding a second-half touchdown reception and finishing with four catches and 81 yards.

BY THE NUMBERS

Kaneland limited Rochelle to just three second-half first downs and none in the third quarter. David had a bigger game running the ball than throwing it, picking up three huge rushing plays in the second half to finish with 131 rushing yards on just six carries.

QUOTABLE

“We made some mistakes in the first half and knew we’d have to come out and play better football in the second half. The guys came out and did what they needed to do.” — Kaneland coach Tom Fedderly.