Coaching Career Begins at Northern Illinois

This is my first time ever doing something like this, so any feedback on how to make it look better would be greatly appreciated. I am playing on Heisman with sliders adjusted. I am strictly coaching. I don't know how to post pictures or anything like that, so that information would be helpful also. Enjoy!

Casey Rice named new Offensive Coordinator at NIU

Casey Rice will join Head Coach Dave Doeren on the sidelines to run the Northern Illinois Huskies offense this upcoming season.

“We’re excited to have Coach Rice join our staff this year.” Coach Doeren stated. “He runs an option offense that was effective at the high school level and put many points on the board. We believe he’ll be a great addition to this football program and bring us many wins and championships.”

Rice was a 2003 graduate of the University of Cincinnati, where he was the quarterback of the Bearcats. After graduating, he went back to his high school in Richwood, OH, and quickly took the North Union Wildcats to the state championship running his unique offense. After 5 succesful seasons, he got his feet wet at the college level as an offensive coordinator for the Division 3 Ohio Northern Polar Bears for 3 years.

“Being contacted by NIU to assist with there offense is a great honor. I’m hoping my expertise and talents will be a positive shot in the arm the Huskies program needs,” stated Rice. “We have a lot of work to do to get these kids running an effective offense, and it starts with our first game against Army.”

NIU opens the season against the Black Knights September 3^rd at home for a noon start.

Season Schedule

1. 9/3 Army 12:00
2. 9/10 at Kansas 12:00
3. 9/17 #11 Wisconsin 8:00
4. 9/24 FCS West 7:45
5. 10/1 at Central Michigan 12:00
6. 10/8 Kent State 12:00
7. 10/15 Western Michigan 3:30
8. 10/22 at Buffalo 7:00
9. BYE
10. 11/5 at Toledo 7:00
11. 11/12 at Bowling Green 6:00
12. 11/19 Ball State 8:00
13. 11/26 Eastern Michigan 8:00
14. BYE

Bold denotes MAC Game

Army hands Northern Illinois Loss In Season Opener

NIU dropped it’s season opener to the Army Black Knights by a score of 24-10. NIU plays their second game at Kansas. Game summary and stats can be seen below:

	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Total
Army	0	17	0	7	24
NIU	0	3	0	7	10

	Army	NIU
Score	24	10
First Downs	17	10
Total Offense	396	185
Rushes-Yards-TD	54-245-2	22-75-1
Comp-Att-TD	9-18-1	9-28-0
Passing Yards	151	110
3rd Down Conv	8-18 (44%)	0-9 (0%)
4th Down Conv	1-1 (100%)	0-1 (0%)
2- Point Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG	5-2-1 (60%)	2-1-1 (100%)
Turnovers	1	1
Fumbles Lost	0	0
Interceptions	1	1
PR Yards	25	40
KR Yards	50	161
Total Yards	471	386
Punt-Average	5-40.4	8-38.4
Penalties-Yards	10-90	5-50
T.O.P.	17:08	14:51

Players of the Game

Army J. Hassin 26 Car, 139 Yds, TD

NIU J. Delegal 5 Tkls, ATK

MAC News of Note
-None

NCAA News of Note
-Baylor wins against #14 TCU 38-35. The win moves them to #25 in the polls, and Arizona State drops out of the top 25. TCU moves to #24 with the loss.

#4 LSU loses to #5 Oregon 38-34. The loss moves LSU to #10. The win moves Oregon to #3.

Top 25 after Week 1

Rank	LW	Team/Votes	Wins	Losses
1	1	Oklahoma (32)	1	0
2	2	Alabama (25)	1	0
3	5	Oregon (2)	1	0
4	3	Stanford (1)	1	0
5	6	Ohio State (1)	1	0
6	7	Oklahoma St	1	0
7	8	Boise State	1	0
8	9	Texas A&M	1	0
9	10	Florida St	1	0
10	4	LSU	0	1
11	11	Wisconsin	1	0
12	12	Auburn	1	0
13	13	South Carolina	1	0
14	15	Michigan St	1	0
15	16	Nebraska	1	0
16	17	Virginia Tech	1	0
17	18	Arkansas	1	0
18	19	Mississippi St	1	0
19	20	Florida	1	0
20	21	Notre Dame	1	0
21	22	Texas	1	0
22	23	Missouri	1	0
23	14	TCU	0	1
25	---	Baylor	1	0

Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and Kansas

This week’s matchup pits the Northern Illinois Huskies (0-1, 0-0) at the Kansas Jayhawks (1-0, 0-0). Here’s how things are shaping out for both teams so far this early season:

Visiting Prospects – 0

Bold denotes leader in that category

Rankings	NIU	KU
Overall Rating	C+	B-
Offense Rating	C+	B-
Defense Rating	C	C+
Points Per Game	10.0 (#100)	28.0 (#70)
Total Offense	185 (#105)	441 (#45)
Rush Offense	75 (#109)	198 (#42)
Pass Offense	110 (#107)	243 (#49)
Total Defense	396 (#84)	376 (#76)
Rush Defense	245 (#113)	262 (#115)
Pass Defense	151 (#53)	114 (#30)
Turnover Diff	0 (#55)	0 (#55)

*Kansas is 1-0 with a week 1 win against FCS MW 28-21
*Northern Illinois is 0-1 following a 10-24 loss to Army

Herby’s Pick of the Week:

*Upset Alert! Northern Illinois

Northern Illinois’ Offense Sputters in Lopsided Loss to Kansas

NIU dropped to 0-2 this week after a one sided loss to Kansas.

On being asked about his offense, Coach Rice had this to say:

“We have to execute better. I know these boys are adjusting to a new offensive scheme, but the little mistakes should not be happening. Those are mistakes that are associated with any type of offense.”

The mistakes he was referring to were the 5 turnovers.

“Harnish held on to the ball a little longer than he needed to when passing. He also made a few errant pitches. I’m confident he’ll get those issues worked out and go on to have a successful senior season.”

Game summary and stats can be seen below:

	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Total
NIU	0	0	0	0	0
KU	7	14	7	3	31

	NIU	KU
Score	0	31
First Downs	12	13
Total Offense	119	260
Rushes-Yards-TD	35-(-20)-0	32-106-1
Comp-Att-TD	13-26	12-25-2
Passing Yards	139	154
3rd Down Conv	5-15 (33%)	3-12(25%)
4th Down Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
2- Point Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG	3-0-0 (0%)	2-2-0 (100%)
Turnovers	5	1
Fumbles Lost	1	1
Interceptions	4	0
PR Yards	20	38
KR Yards	121	0
Total Yards	260	298
Punt-Average	8- 44.8	8- 45.3
Penalties-Yards	5-36	6-60
T.O.P.	19:59	12:01

Players of the Game

NIU B. Lawson 2 Tkls, 2 TFL

KU T. Opurun 4 Tkls, 4 TFL, 2 ATK

MAC News of Note
MAC Standings

Rank	Team	REC	PCT	CONF	PF	PA
1	Temple	2-0	1.000	1-0	86	24
2	Ohio	2-0	1.000	0-0	93	41
3	EMU	2-0	1.000	0-0	83	41
4	WMU	2-0	1.000	0-0	73	38
5	CMU	1-1	0.500	0-0	48	45
6	Toledo	1-1	0.500	0-0	80	45
7	BGU	0-2	0.000	0-0	27	79
8	Buffalo	0-2	0.000	0-0	24	53
9	Kent St	0-2	0.000	0-0	25	55
10	NIU	0-2	0.000	0-0	10	55
11	Miami	0-1	0.000	0-0	33	36
12	Akron	0-2	0.000	0-0	17	96
13	Ball St	0-2	0.000	0-1	36	75

NCAA News of Note
-#18 Mississippi State edges #12 Auburn 29-26. The win moves them to #15 in the polls, while Auburn drops to #19.

Top 25 after Week 2

Rank	LW	Team/Votes	Wins	Losses
1	2	Alabama (32)	2	0
2	1	Oklahoma (26)	1	0
3	3	Oregon (2)	2	0
4	4	Stanford (1)	2	0
5	5	Ohio State	2	0
6	6	Oklahoma St	2	0
7	7	Boise State	1	0
8	8	Texas A&M	1	0
9	9	Florida St	2	0
10	10	LSU	1	1
11	11	Wisconsin	2	0
12	13	South Carolina	2	0
13	14	Michigan St	2	0
14	15	Nebraska	2	0
15	18	Mississippi St	2	0
16	16	Virginia Tech	2	0
17	17	Arkansas	2	0
18	19	Florida	2	0
19	12	Auburn	1	1
20	20	Notre Dame	2	0
21	21	Texas	2	0
22	22	Missouri	2	0
23	24	TCU	1	1
24	25	Baylor	2	0
25	---	West Virginia	2	0

Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and Wisconsin

The Northern Illinois Huskies (0-2, 0-0) will take on the #11 Wisconsin Badgers (2-0, 0-0) in DeKalb, Ill this weekend. The Huskies look to make some improvements following a disappointing showing against Kansas last weekend. Here’s how things are shaping out for both teams so far this early season:

Visiting Prospects – 0

Bold denotes leader in that category

Rankings	WIS	NIU
Overall Rating	A	C+
Offense Rating	A	C+
Defense Rating	B+	C
Points Per Game	44.5 (#9)	5.0 (#120)
Total Offense	1025 (#17)	304 (#104)
Rush Offense	515 (#9)	55 (#119)
Pass Offense	510 (#32)	249 (#99)
Total Defense	361 (#10)	656 (#74)
Rush Defense	180 (#25)	351 (#98)
Pass Defense	181 (#10)	305 (#47)
Turnover Diff	1 (#46)	-3 (#101)

*Wisconsin is 2-0 and ranked #11 in the nation.
*Northern Illinois is 0-2 and is dead last in the nation in Points Scored Per Game.

Herby’s Pick of the Week:

Wisconsin

Northern Illinois Gives Wisconsin A Scare, But Fall Short

The scoreboard shows a large difference in score, but the Huskies give the Badgers a test.

The Badgers were able to come up with a win Saturday night in DeKalb by capitalizing on some key mistakes by the Husky offense. An interception in the red zone, and another returned for a touchdown were just a few factors that hurt the Huskies. A holding penalty on a two point conversation forced the Huskies to kick a PAT to come within 8, instead of 7.

“That was a huge momentum killer for us.” Head Coach Dave Doeren said. “After that, Wisconsin drove down the field to score and took the wind right out of our sales. I’m proud of our boys though. Our strengths are really starting to show for us, it’s just our weakenesses that are holding us back.”

The Huskies have a chance to pick up a W next week, as they host FCS W in DeKalb.

Game summary and stats can be seen below:

	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Total
UW	7	7	14	14	42
NIU	0	3	10	7	20

	UW	NIU
Score	42	20
First Downs	17	17
Total Offense	360	303
Rushes-Yards-TD	31-115-0	29-36-1
Comp-Att-TD	21-35-5	18-33-1
Passing Yards	245	267
3rd Down Conv	10-15 (66%)	5-13 (38%)
4th Down Conv	1-1 (100%)	1-2 (50%)
2- Point Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG	7-4-0 (57%)	4-1-2 (75%)
Turnovers	2	5
Fumbles Lost	1	1
Interceptions	1	4
PR Yards	6	8
KR Yards	45	86
Total Yards	411	397
Punt-Average	4- 46.8	3- 45.0
Penalties-Yards	5-63	7-51
T.O.P.	13:56	18:04

Players of the Game

UW R. Wilson 21-35 245 Yds, 5 TD

NIU W. Clark 4 Rec, 106 Yds, TD

MAC News of Note
MAC Standings

Rank	Team	REC	PCT	CONF	PF	PA
1	CMU	2-1	0.660	1-0	76	63
2	Temple	2-1	0.660	1-0	103	80
3	Ball St	1-2	0.330	1-0	63	81
4	Ohio	3-0	1.000	0-0	121	60
5	WMU	2-1	0.660	0-1	91	66
6	EMU	2-1	0.660	0-0	97	89
7	Miami	1-1	0.500	0-0	71	53
8	Toledo	1-2	0.330	0-0	83	92
9	BGU	0-3	0.000	0-0	30	96
10	Buffalo	0-3	0.000	0-1	30	80
11	NIU	0-3	0.000	0-0	30	97
12	Akron	0-3	0.000	0-1	31	154
13	Kent St	0-3	0.000	0-0	42	83

NCAA News of Note
-Unranked Miami Hurricanes take out the #5 Ohio State Buckeyes 37-23 to drop them to #14.

-#19 Auburn drops from the polls after unranked Clemson wins 24-19. The win places Clemson at #23

Top 25 after Week 3

Rank	LW	Team/Votes	Wins	Losses
1	2	Oklahoma (39)	2	0
2	1	Alabama (21)	3	0
3	3	Oregon (1)	3	0
4	4	Stanford	3	0
5	6	Oklahoma St	3	0
6	7	Boise St	2	0
7	8	Texas A&M	2	0
8	10	LSU	2	1
9	11	Wisconsin	3	0
10	12	South Carolina	3	0
11	14	Nebraska	3	0
12	9	Florida St	2	1
13	16	Virginia Tech	3	0
14	5	Ohio State	2	1
15	17	Arkansa	3	0
16	20	Notre Dame	3	0
17	18	Florida	3	0
18	13	Michigan St	2	1
19	15	Mississippi St	2	1
20	22	Missouri	3	0
21	23	TCU	2	1
22	24	Baylor	2	0
23	---	Clemson	3	0
24	---	USC	3	0
25	---	UCF	3	0

Others Receiving Votes –

Miami (192), Northwestern (180), Auburn (177), Penn State (114),
Maryland (71), Pittsburgh (42)

Dropped Out –

Auburn (#19), Texas (#21), West Virginia (#25)

Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and FCS West

The Northern Illinois Huskies (0-3, 0-0) will take on FCS West Bulldogs Saturday night in DeKalb, Ill this weekend. The are looking to improve in some areas and hopefully get the first win of the season under their belt. The Huskies are heavily favored in this matchup and will be taking some vengeance out on the Bulldogs.

Visiting Prospects – 0

Team Matchup not provided due to no stats from FCS W.

*Northern Illinois is 0-3 coming into this game.

Herby’s Pick of the Week:

Northern Illinois

QB Chandler Harnish Sets New NCAA Record In NIU’s First Win of the Season

Chandler Harnish threw a 93 yard bomb which broke an NCAA record for longest pass in a game Saturday during a rainy day at Husky Stadium. That toss opened the doors for NIU to burst through on their way to a 31-10 win against the FCS W Bulldogs.

“I saw Palmer streaking down the sidelines and just let it go.” Harnish said. That pass hit him in stride and he was able to outrun the Bulldog defense on his way to the endzone.

The Huskies had a gameplan and stuck to it. That gameplan included setting up play action passes by using the option run. It seemed like the Bulldog secondary was constantly having to stop in their tracks and turn around to get to the receiver sprinting behind them.

Holding penalties are still hobbling the offense, as they had a few positive rushing plays called back.

The Huskies (1-3, 0-0) open up MAC play next weekend as they go to Central Michigan and take on the Chippewas (2-2, 1-0).

Game summary and stats can be seen below:

	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Total
FCS W	0	3	0	7	10
NIU	7	14	7	3	31

	FCS W	NIU
Score	10	31
First Downs	11	7
Total Offense	224	397
Rushes-Yards-TD	17-42-0	33-76-1
Comp-Att-TD	14-33-1	15-20-3
Passing Yards	182	321
3rd Down Conv	3-13 (23%)	5-14 (35%)
4th Down Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
2- Point Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG	3-1-1 (66%)	4-1-1 (50%)
Turnovers	2	0
Fumbles Lost	2	0
Interceptions	0	0
PR Yards	8	13
KR Yards	84	43
Total Yards	316	453
Punt-Average	8- 42.8	6- 44.2
Penalties-Yards	3-20	5-60
T.O.P.	10:14	21:46

Players of the Game

FCS W None

NIU C. Harnish 15-20, 321 Yds, 3 TD

MAC News of Note
MAC Standings

Rank	Team	REC	PCT	CONF	PF	PA
1	Miami	2-1	0.660	1-0	113	74
2	Temple	2-2	0.500	1-0	131	143
3	CMU	2-2	0.500	1-0	89	110
4	Ball St	1-3	0.250	1-0	72	112
5	Ohio	4-0	1.000	0-0	148	70
6	WMU	2-2	0.500	0-1	98	105
7	EMU	2-2	0.500	0-0	100	141
8	Kent St	1-3	0.250	0-0	73	93
9	Toledo	1-3	0.250	0-0	96	112
10	NIU	1-3	0.250	0-0	61	107
11	BGU	0-4	0.000	0-1	51	138
12	Akron	0-4	0.000	0-1	51	182
13	Buffalo	0-4	0.000	0-1	33	104

NCAA News of Note
-#15 Arkansas upsets #2 Alabama 30-24. The win moves Arkansas to #13 and drops Alabama to #8.

-#5 Oklahoma State goes to #7 Texas A&M and gets handled by the Aggies 34-21. Oklahoma State drops to #12 while Texas A&M moves up to 4^th.

- Unranked Colorado drops #14 Ohio State 29-28 on a touchdown with 22 seconds left.

Top 25 after Week 4

Rank	LW	Team/Votes	Wins	Losses
1	1	Oklahoma (36)	3	0
2	3	Oregon (21)	4	0
3	4	Stanford (2)	3	0
4	7	Texas A&M (1)	3	0
5	6	Boise St (1)	3	0
6	8	LSU	3	1
7	9	Wisconsin	4	0
8	2	Alabama	3	1
9	10	South Carolina	4	0
10	11	Nebraska	4	0
11	12	Florida St	3	1
12	5	Oklahoma St	3	1
13	15	Arkansas	4	0
14	13	Virginia Tech	4	0
15	16	Notre Dame	4	0
16	17	Florida	4	0
17	18	Michigan St	3	1
18	19	Mississippi St	3	1
19	21	TCU	3	1
20	22	Baylor	3	0
21	24	USC	4	0
22	25	UCF	4	0
23	14	Ohio State	2	2
24	20	Missouri	3	1
25	---	Miami	2	1

Others Receiving Votes –

Northwestern (193), Clemson (128), Auburn (126), Penn State (110),
Maryland (94), Colorado (11), Georgia Tech (6)

Dropped Out –

Clemson (#23)

Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and Central Michigan

The Northern Illinois Huskies (1-3, 0-0) will take on the Central Michigan Chippewas (2-2, 1-0) this weekend at CMU. The Huskies look to make it two in a row this season and open up MAC play with a win, while the Chips look to improve to 2-0. Here’s how things are shaping out for both teams so far this early season:

Visiting Prospects – 0

Bold denotes leader in that category

Rankings	NIU	CMU
Overall Rating	C+	C
Offense Rating	C+	C
Defense Rating	C	C-
Points Per Game	15.2 (#109)	22.2 (#85)
Total Offense	1004 (#98)	1330 (#55)
Rush Offense	167 (#119)	408 (#100)
Pass Offense	837 (#53)	922 (#35)
Total Defense	1240 (#58)	1533 (#102)
Rush Defense	508 (#52)	669 (#101)
Pass Defense	732 (#62)	864 (#93)
Turnover Diff	-1 (#72)	-3 (#98)

The Huskies are hoping the old adage “Defense wins games” is true this week, as their defense stacks up well against a weaker offense.

Herby’s Pick of the Week:

NIU

NIU Comes From Behind to Stun The Chippewas!

Senior Jasmin Hopkins breaks an NCAA Record with the longest run in history, an 80 yard jaunt to spark a fire in the 2^nd quarter, as the Huskies come from behind to beat the Chips.

“I knew as soon as I got around the corner on the left side, I had it.” Hopkins stated.

The game didn’t start off how the Huskies would have liked. Senior QB Chandler Harnish’s first two passes were picked off, which dug NIU into a hole. The offense rallied behind him, though, and took care of the game on the ground. Harnish was quiet most of the game, until he unloaded a bomb to Junior Martel Moore, an 80 yard toss that was taken to the house. He then followed that up with a go ahead 72 yard bomb Senior Willie Clark. The defense then held their ground, allowing a lone field goal to the Chips, and stealing a win.

The Huskies (2-3, 1-0) will host the Kent State Golden Flashes (1-4, 0-1) at noon in Dekalb, Ill.

Game summary and stats can be seen below:

	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Total
NIU	0	14	10	15	39
CMU	6	24	0	3	33

	NIU	CMU
Score	39	33
First Downs	10	20
Total Offense	433	466
Rushes-Yards-TD	38-205-3	27-95-1
Comp-Att-TD	10-19-2	25-55-1
Passing Yards	228	371
3rd Down Conv	2-12 (16%)	6-19 (31%)
4th Down Conv	0-0 (0%)	1-2 (50%)
2- Point Conv	1-1 (100%)	0-0 (0%)
Red Zone-TD-FG	4-2-1 (75%)	6-1-4 (83%)
Turnovers	3	1
Fumbles Lost	1	1
Interceptions	2	0
PR Yards	21	34
KR Yards	104	63
Total Yards	558	563
Punt-Average	6- 43.8	5- 46.2
Penalties-Yards	10-61	6-50
T.O.P.	16:27	15:33

Players of the Game

NIU J. Hopkins 13 Car, 167 Yds, 2 TD

CMU J. Carr 5 Tkls, TFl, 3 ATK

MAC News of Note
MAC Standings

Rank	Team	REC	PCT	CONF	PF	PA
1	Ohio	5-0	1.000	1-0	182	83
2	Temple	3-2	0.600	2-0	150	157
3	EMU	3-2	0.600	1-0	130	161
4	Miami	2-2	0.500	1-0	130	110
5	NIU	2-3	0.400	1-0	100	140
6	Ball St	1-4	0.200	1-0	78	164
7	CMU	2-3	0.400	1-1	122	149
8	WMU	2-3	0.400	0-1	115	150
9	Kent St	1-4	0.200	0-1	86	127
10	Toledo	1-4	0.200	0-1	110	131
11	Buffalo	0-5	0.000	0-1	47	139
12	BGU	0-5	0.000	0-1	58	176
13	Akron	0-5	0.000	0-2	71	212

NCAA News of Note
-Unranked Auburn takes out #9 South Carolina 39-24 in SEC play. The upset moves Auburn to #21 and drops South Carolina to #16.

-#13 Arkansas whallops #7 Texas A&M 49-10. Arkansas moves to #8 while Texas A&M drops to #10.

Top 25 after Week 5

Rank	LW	Team/Votes	Wins	Losses
1	1	Oklahoma (37)	4	0
2	2	Oregon (22)	4	0
3	3	Stanford (1)	4	0
4	5	Boise St (1)	4	0
5	7	Wisconsin	5	0
6	6	LSU	4	1
7	8	Alabama	4	1
8	13	Arkansas	5	0
9	11	Florida St	3	1
10	4	Texas A&M	3	1
11	12	Oklahoma St	3	1
12	14	Virginia Tech	5	0
13	15	Notre Dame	5	0
14	17	Michigan St	4	1
15	10	Nebraska	4	1
16	9	South Carolina	4	1
17	18	Mississippi St	4	1
18	19	TCU	4	1
19	16	Florida	4	1
20	22	UCF	4	0
21	---	Auburn	3	2
22	24	Missouri	3	1
23	25	Miami	3	1
24	---	Illinois	5	0
25	---	Penn St	4	1

Others Receiving Votes –

Baylor (129), Maryland (107), Colorada (74), Georgia Tech (52), USC (47),
Ohio State (35), Texas (17), Clemson (16)

Dropped Out –

Baylor (#20), USC (#21), Ohio State (#23)

Things You Need To Know Between Northern Illinois and Kent State

The Northern Illinois Huskies (2-3, 1-0) look to extend their winning streak to 3 as they host the Kent State Golden Flashes (1-4, 0-1) this weekend. This looks to be a pretty even matchup. The winner of this game will be the one who shows they want it the most. A suspect KSU defense will be relying on their #49 ranked offense, while the Huskies look to hold them and use the ground game to run them over.

Visiting Prospects – 6

Name	POS	HT	WT	Specialty	Nat. Rank	Hometown	Caliber
Harvey Daniels	T	6’5”	298	Run Block	85	Brookfield, IL	3
Derrick Wagner	HB	6’0”	188	Speed	132	Plymouth, MI	2
Vernon Jones	C	6’3’	275	Balanced	33	Holland, MI	3
Tim Givens	TE	6’2”	257	Balanced	44	Lemay, MO	3
Pete Johnson	DT	6’7”	294	Pass Rush	73	Oak Forest, IL	3
Glenn Brown	DT	5’11”	357	Run Stop	33	Brookfield, WI	3

Bold denotes leader in that category

Rankings	KSU	NIU
Overall Rating	C	C+
Offense Rating	C	C+
Defense Rating	C-	C
Points Per Game	17.2 (#102)	20.0 (#94)
Total Offense	1727 (#49)	1437 (#83)
Rush Offense	887 (#33)	372 (#115)
Pass Offense	840 (#87)	1065 (#53)
Total Defense	1504 (#48)	1706 (#82)
Rush Defense	707 (#78)	603 (#48)
Pass Defense	797 (#44)	1103 (#99)
Turnover Diff	-5 (#111)	-2 (#88)

Herby’s Pick of the Week:

NIU

NIU Fails To Show Up Against Kent State

The NIU Huskies (2-4, 1-1) was embarrassed by Kent State (2-4, 1-1) Saturday afternoon, as they demolished the Huskies 50-14. Yes, it was that bad.

Coach Dave Doeren did not allow the media into the locker room after the game, but you could tell he wasn’t happy. Crashes were heard outside the locker room door, as well as undecipherable yelling, but the bottom line was, his team stunk it up on the field.

The Huskies turned the ball over 7 times, with 5 interceptions, one being in the 4 being in the red zone. Two fumbles were returned for touchdowns. Four dropped passes didn’t help their effort any either.

NIU needs to step up their game, as they have an even bigger challenge next week as they host Western Michigan (3-3, 1-1).

Game summary and stats can be seen below:

	1	2	3	4	Total
Kent	20	10	13	7	50
NIU	0	7	7	0	14

	NIU	CMU
Score	50	14
First Downs	16	15
Total Offense	384	346
Rushes - Yards - TD	36 - 150 - 1	26 - 49 - 0
Comp - ATT - TD	15 - 31 - 3	21 - 40 - 2
Passing Yards	234	297
3rd Down Conv	7 - 16 (43%)	4 - 13 (30%)
4th Down Conv	0 - 0 (0%)	0 - 0 (0%)
2 Pt. Conv	0 - 0 (0%)	0 - 0 (0%)
Red Zone - TD - FG	5 - 2 - 2 (80%)	4 - 0 - 0 (0%)
Turnovers	0	7
Fumbles	0	5
Interceptions	0	2
PR Yards	15	8
KR Yards	23	142
Total Yards	422	496
Punts - Average	4 - 43.5	6 - 42.0
Penalties - Yards	4 - 44	6 - 40
T.O.P.	13:53	18:07

Players of the Game

Kent I. Kitchen 3 Tkls, 4 TFL, 3 ATK

NIU N. Jefferson 5 Tkls, 3 TFl, ATK

MAC News of Note

MAC Standings

	Rank	Team	REC	PCT	Conf	PF	PA
:Ohio:	1	Ohio	6-0	1.000	2-0	216	93
:Temple:	2	Temple	4-2	0.660	3-0	181	181
:Miami_OH:	3	Miami	3-2	0.600	1-0	147	124
:Toledo:	4	Toledo	2-4	0.330	1-1	141	148
:Kent_State:	5	Kent St	2-4	0.330	1-1	136	141
:Northern_Illinois:	6	NIU	2-4	0.330	1-1	114	190
:Central_Michigan:	7	CMU	2-4	0.330	1-1	170	205
:Western_Michigan:	8	WMU	3-3	0.500	1-1	149	153
:Eastern_Michigan:	9	EMU	3-3	0.500	1-1	147	192
:Ball_State:	10	Ball St	1-5	0.160	1-1	102	195
:Akron:	11	Akron	1-5	0.160	0-2	91	222
:Buffalo:	12	Buffalo	0-6	0.000	0-2	57	173
:Bowling_Green:	13	BGU	0-6	0.000	0-2	61	210

NCAA News of Note

-#8 Arkansas falls to #14 following a loss to #21 Auburn, who moves to #18

-#12 Virginia Tech drops to #20 losing 38-28 to #23 Miami, who moves behind Va. Tech to #21

Top 25 after Week 5

Rank	LW	Team/Votes	Wins	Losses
1	2	Oregon (37)	5
2	1	Oklahoma (22)	5
3	3	Stanford (1)	5
4	5	Wisconsin (1)	5
5	4	Boise St	5
6	6	LSU	5	1
7	7	Alabama	5	1
8	13	Notre Dame	6
9	9	Florida St	4	1
10	10	Texas A&M	4	1
11	11	Oklahoma St	4	1
12	14	Michigan St	4	1
13	15	Nebraska	5	1
14	8	Arkansas	5	1
15	16	South Carolina	5	1
16	17	Mississippi St	5	1
17	18	TCU	5	1
18	21	Auburn	4	2
19	24	Illinois	6
20	12	Virginia Tech	5	1
21	23	Miami	4	1
22	22	Missouri	4	1
23	---	Georgia Tech	6
24	19	Florida	4	2
25	---	USC	4	1

Others Receiving Votes –

Iowa (104), Colorado (84), Utah (47), Penn State (23),
Clemson (22), Pittsburgh (10), Maryland (3)

Dropped Out –

UCF (#20), Penn State (#23)

:Western_Michigan: ^{(3-3, 1-1)} @ :Northern_Illinois:^{(2-4, 1-1)}

The Northern Illinois Huskies (2-4, 1-1) look to get back into the win column as they play host to Western Michigan Broncos (3-3, 1-1) this weekend. This looks to be a fairly even matchup.

Northern Illinois was unable to secure any recruits last weekend in their devastating loss to Kent State. Their experiences were as follows:

Name	POS	Caliber	Grade
Harvey Daniels	T (#85)	:3star:	C+
Derrick Wagner	HB (#132)	:2star:	C
Vernon Jones	C (#33)	:3star:	C
Tim Givens	TE (#44)	:3star:	C-
Pete Johnson	DT (#73)	:3star:	C
Michael Garner	DT (#76)	:3star:	C
Glenn Brown	DT (#33)	:3star:	C

For this week's matchup:

Rankings	WMU	NIU
Overall Rating	:check: C+	C+
Offense Rating	:check: C+	C+
Defense Rating	:check: C+	C
Points Per Game	:check: 24.8 (#76)	19.0 (#97)
Total Offense	:check: 2038 (#44)	1783 (#72)
Rush Offense	:check: 742 (#83)	421 (#116)
Pass Offense	1296 (#39)	:check: 1362 (#32)
Total Defense	2219 (#101)	:check: 2090 (#93)
Rush Defense	856 (#85)	:check: 753 (#53)
Pass Defense	1363 (#106)	:check:1337 (#103)
Turnover Diff	:check: 1 (#50)	-9 (#116)

HERBY'S PICK

:Western_Michigan:

NIU has 3 recruits on campus this weekend:

Name	Position	Specialty	Caliber
Reggie Jones	QB (#64)	Scrambler	:2star:
Jared Thomas	T (#116)	Balanced	:2star:
Cameron Cox	DT (#85)	Pass Rusher	:3star:

Just joined this site today, and noticed that nobody had responded to this very interesting thread. Great work lildude39! Do you plan on continuing the thread? I hope so. I wanted to offer a little constructive criticism. The most interesting parts are the stats for your team and the "stories" by the reporters. I think you are making way too much work for yourself putting in weekly rankings, little notes about other happenings, etc. The detail is impressive, but the best parts of your thread are getting buried a bit. Also, by keeping the entries to strictly "sportswriter" accounts (which were great btw) and the stats you'll minimize the labor in producing your entries and I'm sure that will increase your enthusiasm for making them. Once again, great job so far.

Thanks Tobus.

I am currently on season 2, but there seemed to be little interest on this, so I quit posting. Also, I've been on travel with little time at home, so I just played and didn't bother updating. Once I get home, I'll pick up again on where I'm at currently.

Thanks for the advice. When i pick this back up, I will go that route.

Thanks again!

Just joined the site today, and Iv'e seen dynasty stories before and this has to be the most impressive. Too bad you wont post anymore

Actually have all day to play, so going to fire this thing back up. I am beginning my third season, and have decided to follow the guidelines that were established in Smooth Pancakes CC. The recruiting rules were established by another person, apologies for not remembering who to give credit to. They are as follows:

Years Two and Three

• May only move on to higher rated OC/DC jobs after full completion of first contract.
  
  --- Next OC/DC job must be at another mid-major program, no more than three stars prestige.

Years Six and Seven

• May only make jump to Head Coach after 6-7 years if going to a mid-major program.
  
  --- Mid-major program must be three stars prestige or less.
  
  ------- May move onto four stars prestige or less mid-major programs after completion of first Head Coach contract.
  _____________
  
  --- OC/DC positions at major/AQ conference programs are now available, up to four stars.
  
  ------- May accept OC/DC at all programs up to five stars after three or more years as OC/DC at a major/AQ conference program.
  
  ---------- May accept OC/DC at all programs, including six star prestige, after five or more years at five stars prestige or less major/AQ conference programs.

Years Twelve and beyond

• May only make jump to Head Coach of major programs after 5 years HC experience at mid-major.
  
  --- May accept HC jobs at five star prestige programs or less.
  
  ------- May accept HC jobs at any programs, including six star prestige, after five or more years at five stars prestige or less major/AQ conference programs.

Contract Rules

• Must honor contract years in full, except:
  
  --- May leave via opt-out clause if offered a coaching contract from Cincinnati (alma mater).
  
  ------- Includes all versions of contracts (OC, DC, and Head Coach).

Recruiting Rules

• As Offensive Coordinator, can only recruit pipeline states. As Head Coach, can recruit anywhere.

Scheduling Rules

• Must fill out schedule like in real life with "contracts".
  
  When coordinator or head coach of a non-BCS/mid-major team
• If scheduling a BCS/major team, must agree to either a 2 for 1 contract or a one and done contract.
• If scheduling a non-BCS/mid-major team, contracts will automatically be home and home.
• Games can be spread out, but must be played within 5 years of each other.
  
  When coordinator or head coach of a BCS/major team
• If scheduling a BCS/major team, contracts will automatically be home and home.
• If scheduling a non-BCS/mid-major team, contracts are allowed to be one and done, home and home, or 2 for 1.
• Games can be spread out, but must be played within 5 years of each other.

I will be entering the 3rd year of my 3 year contract. My progress so far:

Goal	Progress	Fail Impact	Pass Impact
2400+ total offensive yards each season	4557	:6redarrow:	:6greenarrow:
7+ rushing TD in each season	Complete		:5greenarrow:
55% pass completions over the entire contract	50%	:5redarrow:	:4greenarrow:
Win 8 games in one season	6		:3greenarrow:
2800+ total offensive yards in each season	4557		:3greenarrow:
14+ points per game in each season	24	:2redarrow:	:2greenarrow:

0 Goals Failed
2 Goals Passed (Win 4 games in one season, 2400+ total offensive yards in one season.)

Current Pipeline States:

Illinois
Missouri
Wisconsin
Florida
Indiana

Current Scheduling Contracts:

Army (2 for 1)
Idaho (Home and Home)

Coach Rice Stays True To His Word

Despite offerings from Indiana University and San Jose State, Coach Casey Rice stated he is staying loyal to the NIU Huskies.

"I signed a 3 year contract, and unlike a lot of coaches that jump the ship at the best possible opportunity, I am staying a Husky until my job is finished." stated Rice.

Coach Rice's contract is up at the end of this season. He is well on his way to completing a majority of the stipulations of the contract. He does, however, have the opt out clause in his contract, that if his alma mater, the University of Cincinnati, makes an offer, he can be let out with no repercussions.

"Ever since I wrapped my playing career up at UC, it has been a goal of mine to wind up back there at one day in another role on the sidelines. I made that clear with NIU, and they respected my wish. Since they pretty much said 'We're loyal to you if they come calling', then I will be loyal to them."

Coach Rice's option offense has gained some criticism with the Dekalb crowd. Slow starts and turnovers have been the achilles heel of the offense, and have generated 2 straight losing seasons for the Huskies.

"I realize the fans are upset with the option, but they have to realize this is a very difficult system to learn. The kids that were here under the previous system were recruited for that system. I believe they've done a great job at adapting. Now that we are getting some kids in here that are familiar with they way we play, it will bring more positive results."

Dekalb and NIU hope so, or else they may be looking for a new offensive coordinator at the end of the year.

The schedules are being generated, offseason recruiting is getting into full swing, and the next season of NIU football is right around the corner! Stay tuned, folks!

Offseason Happenings at Northern Illinois University

Jordan Luallen becomes a Husky

(This occurred last year)

Jordan Luallen has decided to transfer from the University of Cincinnati after being upset with Coach Butch Jones. The scrambling 6'3" 218 lb. former Bearcat should fit in to the option very well, and is looking forward to wrapping his career up at NIU

Dekalb Welcomes The New Huskies

The NIU Huskies sport the #86 ranked class in the nation with the following signed recruits:

Player	POS	Ht.	Wt.	Caliber
J. Gray	DE	6'4"	264	:4star:
J. Patrick	ATH	6'1"	196	:3star:
C. Bowling	WR	6'2"	166	:3star:
R. Sullivan	HB	6'1"	217	:3star:
R. Bradley	DE	6'1"	220	:3star:
J. Smith	OLB	6'4"	224	:3star:
C. McKinney	WR	6'2"	209	:2star:
J. Rodgers	DT	6'4"	304	:2star:
J. Walton	FS	6'5"	183	:2star:
J. Billings	HB	5'9"	203	:2star:
B. Williams	CB	6'0"	185	:2star:
B. Busch	ATH	5'10"	183	:2star:
D. Foster	T	6'4"	303	:2star:
J. Lake	MLB	6'5"	225	:2star:
C. Jones	SS	6'0"	212	:2star:
A. Harris	DT	6'4"	285	:2star:
W. Connor	G	6'3"	302	:2star:
M. Scott	C	6'3"	291	:1star:
T. Colbert	CB	6'0"	183	:1star:

Q&A Session With The NIU Coaches

"Good evening everybody, and welcome to the first annual, 'Ask The Coaches' session. I'm your host for night, Justin Taylor. With me in the studio tonight is Head Coach Bill Busch, Offensive Coordinator Casey Rice, and Defensive Coordinator Jay Niemann. Thanks for being here tonight, fellas."

Bill Busch: Thanks for having us Justin.

JT: Now Coach Busch, this is the first session we've had with you guys. Let's give the readers, listeners, and watchers as to why we are doing this.

BB: Well Justin, I wanted to start this Q&A session just to give the fans a preview of what we are expecting this season, as well as to answer some questions they may have regarding the program. I started something like this at my first coaching job, and it went really well. It generated more of a buzz and got the folks more interested in what's happening and got them to come out to the games. I'd like this to be a continuing effort and I want, not only Dekalb, but the nation talking about NIU football.

JT: This is really a great idea, and I'm honored that I can be a part of the first show. Well, let's get started. My first question is for Coach Busch. With your first season under your belt, how does it feel coming in to this season coming off a bowl game.

BB: We're fired up and ready to go, Justin. Certainly we would have liked to have a better showing against a tough Michigan State team in the Military Bowl. It was our only nationally televised game of the year, and to come out as flat as we were, we did a poor job of showing the nation what NIU football is all about. Myself, Coach Rice, and Coach Niemann sat down, poured over the game tape, and found a lot of weaknesses. We believe we have those fixed and are ready to come out of the gate strong this year and sustain it the entire season.

JT: What were some of those weaknesses, Coach?

BB: Well Justin, turnovers were the biggest. We found we let the ball hit the ground way too many times. Our pitches were erratic. Our line didn't do the best job of blocking, which allowed the defenders to get in the face of our quarterbacks, who then pitched the ball when the runner wasn't ready, or there was a defender in his face as well and it bounced off of him. We have been working those issues out, pointing out what our quarterbacks need to look for and read the play before it begins.

Another problem we had was too many penalties. It seemed like every time we had a good run, it was called back for holding, often times when the runner was already beyond the line. I feel if we cut those down, it cuts down our 2nd and 3rd and longs, and we move the ball down the field and put more points on the board.

JT: Sounds like if there were any areas to improve, those would be it. My next question is to Coach Rice. Some criticism has come your way on your option offense. Many folks want to just hand the ball off and let the runners hit the hole. They feel pitching the ball provides for too many errors. What are your thoughts?

CR: The option is a difficult system to run effectively, but when's it ran the way it should be, it's hard to defend and can be very successful. You can chew up a lot of yards, as well as dominate the T.O.P., and control the game. I feel like we're getting the right personnel in our system, and should be a lot more successful this season. If you look at teams like Navy and Georgia Tech, they are terrors on the field because that's all they do is chew up yards and clock. It wears the defense out, and provides your defense plenty of time to rest, and they can ultimately control the opposing offense.

JT: Army has certainly improved their game with the option as well.

CR: Absolutely.

JT: Coach Niemann, how is your defense looking to be this year?

JN: We're looking good Justin. We've recruited well and look to have some size and speed this year. Our secondary is looking to be ball hawks and our line will really be looking to explode and get to the quarterback a lot more. We've beefed up and once we establish control of the line, our secondary will be getting extra work in breaking up passes and picking a few off.

JT: We are certainly looking forward to a tough defense and be nightmares on the field.

We have to take a commercial break, but when we come back, we take your calls and questions you have for the NIU coaches.

~~~

~~~

JT: And welcome back to our first annual "Ask the Coaches". If you're just joining us, we are sitting with the coaches of the NIU Huskies and finding out about what to look for this year. This part of the show, we ask you, the faithful NIU fans, to call in and ask what you want to these guys. And let's go to our first caller. Hello, what do you have for these coaches?"

Caller 1: Good evening coaches. My question is for Coach Niemann. MSU had a heyday with us last year in the bowl, throwing and running all over our D. What are your plans for stopping teams this year that are built like them?

JN: We have really added size and speed to our D this year. We have quality specialty coaches working with these kids day in and day out and we're getting the results we want to see. Our vision is improving in seeing the field and know what's developing.

Caller 2: Coach Rice, I'll admit, I'm not one of the biggest fans of option football. I like the ground and pound we see from bigger schools. If the option doesn't work out this year, is there any chance we start to implement more of a straight up running game?

CR: The option is built more around speed, timing, and vision. A lot of your bigger schools can recruit monsters who are capable of pushing people around, and then the running back just runs up their backs and through the holes that they leave in their wake. NIU is not on the level of the Michigans and Ohio States we're recruiting against, so we have to take a different approach, and that's getting the speed and building players up to what we need.

Caller 3: Coach Busch, can we look forward to a winning season, and possibly our first conference championship since 1983?

BB: Those are definitely our goals. No coach will say no to a winning season and championship, and I'm no different. We're taking every game one at a time, because that's how you build up to the winning season and championships. We feel like we have everything in place to be right at the top of the MAC.

Caller 4: Coach Rice, you're one of the cutest coaches in the country. Are you single?

CR: Haha, make me blush, will ya? Sorry caller, I'm taken.

JT: Haha, alright on that note, lets take a break, and come back with what the schedule looks like, and where your Huskies look to finish this year in the MAC.

~~~

~~~

JT: And welcome back. The preseason schedule was released earlier today, and let's have a look at it:

Week	Opponent
1	Arkansas State
2	Army
3	@ Ohio*
4	Miami U*
5	@ Idaho
6	@ Bowling Green *
7	@ Toledo*
8	Akron*
9	Western Michigan*
10	Bye
11	Bye
12	Ball State* (Homecoming)
13	@Central Michigan*
14	Eastern Michigan*
15	Championship Week

*Denotes Conference Game

JT: That looks like a pretty solid schedule this year, with a C- rating given to strength

BB: Yeah, we're going to have our work cut out for us, that's for sure. We finish up our contract this year with Idaho, as well as enter into a Home and Home with Arkansas State. We have one more road trip against Army after this year as well.

JT: And here's how the MAC Conference is looking to shape out this year:

	Team
:Miami_OH:	Miami U
:Ohio:	Ohio
:Western_Michigan:	Western Michigan
:Central_Michigan:	Central Michigan
:Northern_Illinois:	Northern Illinois
:Akron:	Akron
:Ball_State:	Ball State
:Toledo:	Toledo
:Kent_State:	Kent State
:Bowling_Green:	Bowling Green
:Buffalo:	Buffalo
:Eastern_Michigan:	Eastern Michigan

JT: Well, that's going to do it for us here in the studio. Be sure to come out to opening day as your NIU Huskies take on Arkansas State. Go Huskies!

NIU Opens The Season Playing Host to the Red Wolves of Arkansas State

NIU opens the college football season playing at home against Arkansas State.

"We're ready to get going and ready to hit someone other then ourselves." Coach Bill Busch stated. "The Red Wolves will be a good test of where we see this season going, and it should be a good game. Come out and support your Huskies!"

Dekalb will be rocking all week leading up to this matchup.

When asked about the quarterback situation, Coach Busch had this to say:

"It will be a Jordan starting, that's all I can say at this point."

Coach Busch was referring to UC transfer Jordan Luallen and last year's starter, Jordan Lynch.

"We don't know who we're going with at this point. Both are ready to go. Luallen has good size and vision, and Lynch has game experience. They may even get double duty."

The game is set to begin at 8:00 pm and will be regionally televised.

Herby's Pick

:Arkansas_State:

NIU Sends The Red Wolves Back to Arkansas With Tails Between Legs

The NIU Huskies (1-0, 0-0) drubbed the Red Wolves (0-1, 0-0) 42-14 Saturday night in Dekalb.

"Once we got the early butterflies out of our system, we settled down and played our game." Coach Bill Busch stated. "I was really pleased with our defense, who allowed the Red Wolves 1 TD."

Arkansas State's 14 points came off of starting QB Jordan Luallen's 2 interceptions, one of which returned for a touchdown. After a lost fumble by Luallen, Jordan Lynch replaced him, and got the offense clicking.

"I'm really proud of Lynch. He didn't get the starting job, but kept his head in the game, and when we needed him, he delivered."

Jordan Lynch got some great support as well, as Senior RB Leighton Settle ran the ball for 170 yards and 4 scores.

"Settle saw the field well, found the holes, and exploded. He, along with our entire defense, deserved players of the game."

The Huskies hope to keep the home fires burning, as they host Army at 12 noon next Saturday.

Game Stats

	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Total
:Arkansas_State:	7	7	0	0	14
:Northern_Illinois:	0	14	14	14	42

	:Arkansas_State:	:Northern_Illinois:
Score	14	42
First Downs	13	13
Total Offense	258	436
Rushes - Yards - TD	26-85-1	40-251-5
Comp - Att - TD	15-41-0	12-23-1
Passing Yards	173	185
3rd Down Conv	5-16 (31%)	7-13 (53%)
4th Down Conv	0-1 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
2 Pt Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
Red Zone TD - FG	3-1-0 (33%)	6-3-0 (50%)
Turnovers	4	4
Fumbles Lost	1	1
Intercepted	3	3
PR Yards	23	15
KR Yards	90	37
Total Yards	371	488
Punts-Average	6-42.7	6-46.7
Penalties	4-40	8-63
T.O.P.	11:30	20:30

Players of the Game

ASU B. Jakes 5 Tkls, 2 TFL, 5 ATK
NIU L. Settle 16 Car, 170 Yds, 4 TD

To The Lion's Den

The Huskies are looking to make it two in a row at home this season as they host the Black Knights of Army in Dekalb, Ill. This will be Army's opening game of the season, as well as season number 2 in the Big East. NIU is looking for their first win against an AQ team in 3 years.

"Army is a tough team. We're going to have to minimize our mistakes, play our game, and hold down their strong offense." Coach Busch said. "It should be a good one, we're hoping for a raucus crowd today."

Army joined the Big East last year, after Syracuse and Pitt left for the ACC.

NIU looks to be favored in this game. They are currently +1 in the turnover differential department, but still need to limit their mistakes, especially penalties. They are looking to establish a solid run game this week, as Army's defense is rated one of the worst in the nation.

Herby's Pick
:Northern_Illinois:

Looks like your Huskies are off to a great start! I'm looking forward to the Army game, hehe.

I'm in the 4th year of a coaching Dynasty as well, albeit as head coach. I chose the local team, New Mexico State, because I figured they'd be a challenge. Unlike your scheduling though lildude I've been changing my schedule..I replaced all Div1 nonconf opponents with FCS teams, lol. Plus in my second year I moved the best teams from the WAC into other conferences and took those conferences weaker teams (hence the great records). So far I have had records of 11-2, 13-0, and 12-1 (but my wins have been against very bad competition). Every year my team's schedule is ranked "F", but as soon as I get the team's talent to a solid mid70's-low 80's rating I'm going to move them to a tougher conference and quit scheduling only FCS nonconfs.

I simmed last season week by week and was favored in every game (and won them all) until I surprisingly found myself playing Ohio State for the MNC, lol. I figured if I simmed (I was C- overall, OSU was A+) that my team would lose by 40 points, so I went ahead and played the game using the "coach" controls. Surprisingly we had a 7-3 lead at the half, but OSU came back to beat us 10-7 (OSU could've probably scored another TD at the end, but opted to run out the clock).

Just saying the contrast in our approaches is interesting. I don't think I'm cheating, so much, as manipulating the level of competition (I call it the "Boise State" approach, lol), ...however you are playing a more realistic approach which is pretty cool.

Mistakes Once Again Hound The Huskies

With a shot to the endzone to take the lead in the second quarter, a Jordan Luallen pass landed in the wrong receivers hands, and ended momentum for the Huskies. An ensuing Army drive that led to a score further deflated them. Jordan Lynch was then placed in the game, but a comeback was not in his hands.

"That Luallen pass hurt us. That changed the whole landscape of the game for us." Coach Busch said. "I credit Lynch with coming up with some big plays to get us back in it, but we still shot ourselves in the foot with penalties."

The Huskies fall to 1-1 (0-0) on the season, and next week's matchup won't get much easier. They will travel to Athens, OH next week for a matchup with a tough Ohio University (1-1, 0-0) team to begin MAC play.

"OU has been tough the last couple years, finishing first and second, respectively, the last two seasons. The starting QB spot is up for grabs again, the harder working of the two QB's will get the nod.

That game will be a 6:00 pm game.

Game Stats

	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Total
:Army:	7	0	17	0	24
:Northern_Illinois:	0	7	0	14	21

	:Army:	:Northern_Illinois:
Score	24	21
First Downs	21	12
Total Offense	366	290
Rushes - Yards - TD	67-255-1	18-46-1
Comp - Att - TD	5-11-1	16-37-2
Passing Yards	111	244
3rd Down Conv	11-18 (61%)	7-13 (53%)
4th Down Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
2 Pt Conv	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
Red Zone TD - FG	4-1-1 (50%)	3-1-0 (33%)
Turnovers	1	3
Fumbles Lost	0	2
Intercepted	1	1
PR Yards	21	17
KR Yards	35	109
Total Yards	422	416
Punts-Average	4-42.0	5-48.0
Penalties	3-40	9-70
T.O.P.	17:50	14:09

Players of the Game

ARMY G. Bartolo 5-11, 111 Yds
NIU J. Lynch 5-15, 146 Yds

That's cool, Tobus. I could see how your way would be fun to do.

I hate playing games where I just dominate every team I play. I actually enjoy getting beat every so often. This NIU team is testing my patience though, haha. I hate not being able to control the players, but i know if I do, then I'm going to win every game. I'm running an option offense, and it's definitely a challenge, to say the least. About the only time I take control is to call audibles and hot routes, but other than that I'm helpless.

I usually play out every game, unless the system freezes and I have to restart, that's when I sim it. I actually won a couple games last season doing that haha. Which made be feel dumb because the computer was a better coach then me, lol.

Thanks for following. It's definitely a lot more fun playing for an audience instead of just posting and getting nothing. That's what happened for last season, just tired of posting and no responses. I guess other folks have stopped playing the game haha. Hope to put on a good show for ya, and good luck in your 'Boise' dynasty :P

Just wanted to clarify that the reason I made such weak schedules for my team is that it really is a horrible team, not for domination purposes. I just started playing Dynasty last week and figured I didn't want to get completely hammered. I was barely beating teams the first and second years, even FCS schools sometimes (wasn't simming at all), but last season I started getting hooked on recruiting and just simmed versus my ridiculously easy schedule. I expect next season to move up to Conf USA or MWC and schedule some decent nonconf opponents. I'll probably go 5-7 hehe.

:Northern_Illinois:^{(1-1, 0-0)} @ :Ohio:^{(1-1, 0-0)}

Both teams open up conference play this weekend, as the Northern Illinois Huskies will travel to Athens, OH this weekend to take on the Ohio Bobcats. The Huskies are coming off a close loss to the Black Knights of Army, while the Bobcats are playing a week after trouncing the Mean Green of North Texas.

When asked about the quarterback situation, Coach Bill Busch had this to say:

"We are going with Jordan Lynch to start this one out. He's proven to be a good leader when he's been in the game this year. He's worked hard this past week of practice, so he's getting the starting nod."

Here's how these two teams match up for this week's game:

Rankings	NIU	OU
Overall Rating	C	:check:C+
Offense Rating	C	:check:C+
Defense Rating	:check: C+	C
Points Per Game	:check: 31.5 (#45)	27.0 (#59)
Total Offense	:check: 726 (#28)	681 (#24)
Rush Offense	:check: 297 (#26)	208 (#55)
Pass Offense	429 (#21)	:check: 473 (#16)
Total Defense	:check:624 (#83)	626 (#84)
Rush Defense	340 (#92)	:check: 328 (#90)
Pass Defense	:check:284 (#106)	298 (#75)
Turnover Diff	-1 (#68)	:check:3 (#4)

HERBY'S PICK
:Northern_Illinois:

Due to me getting severely ticked off at the game (3 interceptions, 2 returned for touchdowns, 4 fumbles, 1 returned for touchdown, 4 sacks, all in the first half), I've decided to just sim the rest of the season. I may or may not keep posting on here.

Alright, I apologize. I let this one get stale with everything going on. I've actually been playing, just haven't been reporting.

Currently, I am in around Season 7 (or 8). After NIU, I went on to a head coaching job at UAB for a year, offensive coordinator at Cincinnati for a year, and jumped to the head coaching position after a year. I'm entering my 4 season as head coach of UC after entering the B1G and winning the National Championship. I actually backdoored my way in the the championship game, then beat TCU pretty soundly for the Championship.

I haven't played for about a month, and have been thinking about starting it back up again, this time destroying UC. I'm going to run an angle where a lot of violations occurred to which the NCAA investigated and dealt the "Death Penalty". Since I've run through the offseason already, but haven't played the first game.

I was wondering what I could do to get this started now? I'm thinking about taking the CPU assistance for recruiting off and simulating about 5 years to get my 6* team down to 1*. I don't want to lose my job and coaching stats for this to happen though. Does anybody have any ideas? I figure with being in the B1G that it would be easy to lose my games. Currently, I have 100% job security. When I'm ready to start up again, I will drop myself to the MAC.

Any help would be appreciated.