MARQUETTE — If there’s one GLIAC program that seems to have the Northern Michigan University football team’s number, it’s Grand Valley State.

Heading in the weekend, GVSU had won four straight over the Wildcats and that streak was extended Saturday as the Lakers sailed past NMU 45-17. Not only did Northern’s losing streak to the Lakers continue, but so did its season streak, which is now at six.

The story of the game was the Lakers’ passing attack as quarterback Cole Kotopka picked apart the Wildcats secondary for 402 yards and five touchdowns.

Kotopka got GVSU on the scoreboard early when he hit Brandon Wadley with a 50-yard touchdown pass. The Lakers padded their lead to two touchdowns on a 27-yard run by Johnt’e Crawford before the Wildcats answered back.

After Ryan Johnson found Ben Loutsis for a 26-yard gain to bring the ball to the GVSU 28, Tyshon King trotted into the end zone four plays later on a 4-yard run. With Daniel Riser’s extra point, Northern (1-6, 0-5 GLIAC) trailed 14-7 going into the second quarter.

That was the last time the Wildcats were within striking distance of the Lakers, though. Kotopka connected with Jayk Slager, Austin Paritee and Jacob Miller for touchdowns and GVSU held a commanding 35-10 lead at the half.

Down 45-10 in the fourth, NMU did get one last touchdown, this time on defense. James Brown forced a Lakers fumble and Jack Reiger scooped up the loose ball and ran it into the end zone for a 5-yard score.

The Wildcats have a bye this week and will return to action Nov. 2 at Northwood.

Information compiled by Journal Sports Writer Ryan Stieg. His email address is rstieg@miningjournal.net.