Photos from Virginia Smith

CHICAGO, Ill. – Facing the tall task of opening their season with a top-25 non-conference opponent, the North Park University football team fell to No. 16 Bethel University 59-7 on Saturday afternoon.

The Vikings' defense was strong early on, forcing a three and out in Bethel's first possession. 

However, the Royals found their footing with a three-minute drive four minutes into the game. A 16-yard pass and six separate rushes placed Bethel in the endzone to mark the first six points of the game.

Next, the Royals utilized a 41-yard pick six by Matt Feldick to expand their lead to 14-0.

North Park steadied themselves not long after on a blink-of-an-eye direct snap to sophomore wide receiver/running back AJ Harris on fourth and one. The Viking wide receiver caught the snap and, thanks to a couple big blocks by the NPU linemen, blasted up the sideline for an explosive 62-yard run.

Despite the momentum-shifting run, the Royals would post 21 points in the first quarter, 14 in both the second and third quarters, and 10 in the fourth to secure a 59-7 win.

FINAL: Bethel 59, North Park 7

Quick Hits:

• Harris finds the endzone with a 62-yard run
• Vikings led by Jeffrey Fisher, Joaquin Tofao, and Mike Oray on defense
• Fisher totals seven tackles, Tafao and Fisher contribute tackles for a loss
• Sophomore running back Tyson Shimabukuro nets 24 rushing yards

What's Next?
 

North Park (0-1) will be off next Saturday before opening conference play at home against Wheaton College. Kickoff at Holmgren is set for 1 p.m.