Photo by Jerry Johnsen

PORTLAND, Ore. - Quarterback Michael Herrick threw for three touchdowns and the rushing attack gained over 200 yards as Northern Arizona won its third consecutive game with a 44-23 victory over Portland State at PGE Park Saturday afternoon.

Herrick, who ranked third in the nation in passing efficiency, completed 21-for-34 passes for 254 yards with three touchdowns without throwing an interception for the third consecutive game.

Senior running back Alex Henderson had 21 carries for 97 yards with two touchdowns, while sophomore Giovannie Dixon added 78 yards on 10 carries with one touchdown.

Herrick connected with seven different receivers on the afternoon led by Conrad Meadows, who had eight grabs for 128 yards and two touchdowns, Daiveun Curry-Chapman also caught a touchdown pass.

NAU (4-2, 3-1) scored on its first two possessions of the game with long scoring drives of 10 or more plays each. The Vikings (2-5, 1-4) answered both scores with field goals but could not get in the end zone until adding two scores in the fourth quarter with the game out of reach.

Overall, the Lumberjacks generated 458 yards of offense, while holding the Vikings to just 274. NAU also converted 11 of 16 third-down conversions, allowing for the extension of several drives on the afternoon in rainy conditions.

NAU also forced three interceptions in the game. Raphael Mack, Zac McNally and Matt Estrada had picks with a team-best six tackles by Estrada.

NAU returns home for the annual Homecoming contest against Idaho State on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. in the Walkup Skydome.