Tony Nelson scores 3 touchdowns, Massachusetts’ defense plays strong to rout Northeastern 37-7

Nelson leads Massachusetts past Northeastern 37-7

AMHERST, Mass. — Tony Nelson ran for 116 yards and three touchdowns to lead Massachusetts to a 37-7 win over Northeastern on Saturday.

Nelson, who finished with 20 carries, scored on two 1-yard runs to give the Minutemen (5-4, 3-3 Colonial Athletic Association) a 17-0 lead in the second quarter. He also scored on a 9-yard run in the second half.

Kyle Havens connected with Victor Cruz on an 11-yard touchdown to extend Massachusetts’ margin to 24 points in the second quarter. Haven was 15-for-21 for 187 yards for the Minutemen. Cruz caught five passes for 88 yards.

The Minutemen totaled 452 yards on offense compared to 145 by the Huskies (1-8, 1-5).

Northeastern was held scoreless through the first three quarters until defensive back Kyle Hunte picked off Massachusetts backup quarterback Scott Woodward’s pass, returning the interception 51 yards for a touchdown.