The Huskies have an incredibly tough task ahead with a road trip to South Bend up next
With both teams1-0, two midwestern schools battle it out in hallowed South Bend, Indiana on Saturday. The Northern Illinois Huskies make the roughly three-hour trip to Notre Dame to face a Fighting Irish team with momentum after knocking off Texas A&M last week. Can the Huskies play spoiler to the Irish's playoff hopes?Northern Illinois quarterback Ethan Hampton led a blowout 54-15 win over Western Illinois in Week One by throwing for 328 yards and five touchdowns.
Notre Dame took home a 23-13 win over Texas A&M to gain some significant momentum to start the season, and jumped from #7 to #5 in the AP Poll. Quarterback Riley Leonard looked solid in his debut for the Irish and kicker Mitch Jeter was perfect on three field goals and two extra point attempts.Northern Illinois might be a heavy underdog in this contest, but their heavily experienced roster could serve them very well as they move through the season.
Obviously, it's not a one-to-one comparison, but the Huskies did beat a Power Five opponent last season at Boston College. Notre Dame's roster jumps out much more than NIU's on paper, but they shouldn't, and likely won't, be taken lightly. Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.Joe covers college sports from the Group of Five ranks and beyond. He has worked in the sports industry since 2008, earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Louisville, and a Master's degree from Seattle University.
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