EVANSTON, IL — Northwestern’s undefeated campaign was put to the test by one-win Ball State in Week 6. The Wildcats needed a second-half rally before escaping with a 20-13 victory over the Cardinals at Ryan Field and improving to 5-0.

Ball State took a 13-3 lead with 42 seconds remaining in the first half after kicker Joe Graves converted field goals from 26 and 34 yards. But Northwestern made the most of the little time remaining.

Quarterback Aidan Chiles quickly moved the Wildcats downfield before connecting with Drew Wagner for a 16-yard touchdown with three seconds left, cutting the Cardinals’ lead to 13-10 at halftime.

Northwestern’s defense shut down Ball State in the second half, while Chiles and the offense carried their late first-half momentum forward.

Chiles threw his second touchdown pass late in the third quarter, finding running back Caleb Komolafe for a 15-yard score that gave Northwestern its first lead of the game, 17-13.

The Wildcats eventually stretched the advantage to 20-13 but still needed one final defensive stop to prevent Ball State from potentially forcing overtime.

Junior Josh Fussell delivered it.

Fussell intercepted quarterback Kendrick Luster as the Cardinals attempted to drive downfield for a game-tying touchdown. Ball State burned its remaining timeouts following the turnover, allowing Northwestern to run out the clock and preserve the victory.

While the Wildcats earned the win, their previously productive running game provided little support. Northwestern finished with just 49 rushing yards. Komolafe carried nine times for 26 yards, while Chiles finished with minus-9 yards on seven rushing attempts.

As it stands…

Northwestern improved to 5-0 overall and remained 2-0 in Big Ten play, keeping its undefeated season intact despite its closest call against an unranked opponent. Ball State dropped to 1-5.