Northern Arizona defeats Eastern Washington 34-27 after trailing by 21 points in the first half

Flagstaff, Ariz. (AP) — In a Big Sky opener on Saturday night, Northern Arizona triumphed over Eastern Washington 34-27, overcoming a 21-point deficit in the first half. Quarterback Ty Pennington connected with receiver Nassim Isaac on a short pass during a fourth-and-goal play, sparking a 34-27 lead. The Lumberjacks, ranked 25th in the FCS, staged a remarkable comeback following an early 24-3 deficit.

Lindsey Graves' 100-yard kickoff return, coupled with Quran Gossett's 2-yard touchdown run, propelled the Lumberjacks to a 24-17 halftime advantage. Pennington continued his impressive performance with a 30-yard touchdown pass to Jeter Purdy, giving NAU the lead early in the fourth quarter. Eastern Washington narrowed the gap with a 37-yard field goal, but NAU's defense thwarted a final Eastern Washington drive, securing the victory.

Pennington completed 164 passes for 164 yards and two touchdowns, while Gossett accumulated 103 yards on the ground. NAU's Purdy added 105 receiving yards. Eastern Washington's Nate Bell passed for 307 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. The Lumberjacks face Eastern Washington again on Saturday.