Although it took some time to find their rhythm on the offensive end, the Northwestern Wildcats have found their groove and hold a comfortable 21-0 lead at the half against Rice. Senior QB Dan Persa threw 2 TD's late in the second quarter to help break open a close game, while the Northwestern defense has kept Rice off the scoreboard.

Persa has been very sharp in his return from a shoulder injury, throwing 3 TD's in the opening half. Persa has completed 14/18 for 278 yards. His favorite target so far has been Jeremy Ebert, who has 5 catches for 173 yards. Along with the 173 yards receiving, Ebert also has 2 TD receptions, while Demetrius Fields added a 15-yard TD.

On the defensive end, the Wildcats have been particularly strong, forcing Rice to punt on its first five possessions. The Wildcats also forced a key interception late in the second quarter, which led to a TD.

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