Oct. 23, 2004
Allendale, Mich. -
Turnovers again proved to be the nemesis for #10 Grand Valley State as five turnovers played a key role in the Lakers' 35-14 loss to #18 Northwood. GVSU falls to 6-2 overall and in league play, while Northwood improves 8-1 overall and 7-1 in league play.
NU struck first when bad snap from center on a punt was recovered by NU on the Laker 12 yard line. Northwood scored two plays later on a Kyle Kolbe two yard run. The Timberwolves then returned a pair of interceptions for TDs in the first quarter to build a 21-0 lead. The lead stood through the second quarter. GVSU made the game interesting with 14 third quarter points. Ryan Hukill scored on a 19 yard run that culminated a 10-play, 58-yard drive. The Lakers scored on their next possession with a 7-play, 54-yard drive. Cullen Finnerty hit Demonte Collins with a 4-yard pass on fourth down to pull GVSU within seven (21-14).
GVSU blocked a Northwood field goal attempt early in the fourth quarter, but a Finnerty pass was picked off at the Laker 45 yard line and returned 27 yards. Northwood scored one play later to take a 28-14 lead. Northwood added a TD with in the closing minutes for the final 35-14 margin.
Finnerty completed 19-of-41 passes for 152 yards and a TD. However, five interceptions proved costly to the Laker offense. Demonte Collins caught nine passes for 60 yards and caught a TD in his eighth consecutive game. Hukill led the rushing attack with 94 yards on 11 carries.
GVSU will return to action Oct. 30 at Northern Michigan. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.