
Sat Sep 07 23:35:41 UTC 2024: ## Northern Illinois Coach Overwhelmed with Emotion After Upset Win Over Notre Dame
Northern Illinois head coach Thomas Hammock was overcome with emotion after his team pulled off a stunning upset over No. 5 Notre Dame on Saturday. The Huskies, who entered the game as 28.5-point underdogs, emerged victorious with a 16-14 win, a historic first for NIU against a top 10 program.
Hammock, a former NIU player himself, was visibly moved during his post-game interview, praising his players and becoming tearful as he described their hard work and dedication. “I’m so proud of these kids, the coaches,” he said, his voice choked with emotion. “They believed! We came here and got it done.”
The coach’s raw display of emotion resonated with fans and fellow coaches alike. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III tweeted, “Coach Thomas Hammock is a real man and REAL MEN CRY. He has worked so hard to get Northern Illinois to this point… You can feel all that hard work pouring out of him.”
Many fans expressed similar sentiments, praising Hammock for his passion and the inspiring victory. The win has been hailed as a testament to the hard work and determination of the NIU program, highlighting the potential for upsets in college football.