Ball State wins with Jackson Courville's 52-yard FG over Northern Illinois
- Jackson Courville kicked a 52-yard field goal with two seconds left to secure victory for Ball State.
- Northern Illinois had briefly taken the lead with an 18-second remaining field goal but could not sustain it.
- This dramatic finish highlights the competitive nature of college football within the Mid-American Conference.
On October 26, 2024, a thrilling college football game unfolded in Muncie, Indiana, where Ball State emerged victorious against Northern Illinois with a score of 25-23. The climax of the match came from Jackson Courville, who executed a stunning 52-yard field goal just two seconds before the final whistle, cementing the win for the Cardinals. This victory marked an important moment for Ball State as they navigated a challenging season. The game was closely contested throughout, with Northern Illinois taking a late lead thanks to Kanon Woodill's 47-yard field goal with only 18 seconds remaining. However, Ball State demonstrated resilience, orchestrating a rapid offensive drive that enabled them to regain control and set up the crucial field goal. Quarterback Kadin Semonza played a pivotal role, completing critical passes to advance his team into scoring range. Key performances included Skyler Gill's notable contribution of seven receptions for 125 yards and a touchdown for Northern Illinois, highlighting the team's offensive capabilities. Despite their defeat, the Huskies showed promise with strong performances from Ethan Hampton and Antario Brown, who each contributed significantly to their scoring efforts. Ultimately, this match exemplified the unpredictability and excitement of college football, particularly within the Mid-American Conference, as teams battled for crucial wins to improve their standings in the season.