Adrian defends home turf in season opener

ADRIAN, Mich. — Turnovers and a costly special-teams mistake spoiled Ohio Northern’s season opener Saturday as Adrian College rallied for a 17-10 victory at Docking Stadium. The Polar Bears took a 7-3 lead into the fourth quarter after quarterback Amir Collings found Mikey Brown for a 13-yard touchdown just before halftime, but ONU could not sustain its offense. Ohio Northern finished with 236 total yards, converted just 2 of 14 third downs and was penalized 12 times for 92 yards.

Adrian seized control in the fourth quarter, blocking an ONU punt before Jake Wright connected with Braiden Whitaker on a 10-yard touchdown pass for a 10-7 lead. The Bulldogs then turned to their defense to finish the job. Luke Stento intercepted three passes, and Michael Brown returned another interception 14 yards for a touchdown with 2:20 remaining. Sean Putt’s 39-yard field goal pulled ONU within 17-10, but Brown intercepted the Polar Bears again on their final possession. Adrian forced five turnovers while holding Ohio Northern scoreless in the second half to send the Polar Bears home with a 0-1 record.

Next Up: 9/12 Ohio Northern vs Marietta, Adrian vs Thiel College