The Eastern football team fell short in its season opener Thursday evening against Northern Illinois 34-27 at Huskie Stadium.

The Panthers found the end zone late in the second quarter after starting quarterback Jonah O’Brien connected with Jaelin Benefield on a 24-yard touchdown pass. The lead was cut to 28-13.

The Panthers would then score again twice in the fourth quarter, ultimately cutting the lead to 34-27. It all came down to 58 seconds left when the Huskies missed a field goal attempt and the Panthers got the ball back.

However, the Panthers could not get it down the field quick enough as time expired.

O’Brien was 25-of-34, passing for 276 yards and three touchdowns, which is the most in a season opener since 2016.

Markenzy Pierre led the rushing game for the Panthers with 101 yards for 14 carries.

Autumn Schulz can be reached at 581-2812 or acschulz@eiu.edu