UNI football: Panthers pick up first win of 2026 against Drake

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa — The UNI Panthers opened the 2026 home slate with a matchup against Drake for Hall of Fame weekend. UNI scored 28 points in each half, while the Panther defense pitched a shutout in the second half to claim a 56-14 victory in the home opener. HOW IT HAPPENED The Panther defense brought the juice early, forcing a pick on the opening drive of the game. John Powers got his hands on the ball for the first pick of his collegiate career, and the Panthers’ first of the season. The Panthers used the ensuing possession to score…