Sep 24, 2022; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Northern Illinois Huskies quarterback Ethan Hampton (2) looks for an open receiver during the third quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports
As Notre Dame football prepares to take on Northern Illinois this weekend, they shouldn’t just believe that the Huskies will lay down and let the Irish walk all over them.
They are coming off a solid season-opening win themselves, scoring 54 points while allowing just 15 to Western Illinois. Yes, there is a big difference in competition levels between the two teams, but NIU isn’t just heading to South Bend for just a paycheck.
There are more than a few Huskies that could give Notre Dame some problems on Saturday and here are the five I believe that can.
Quarterback Ethan Hampton
The junior had quite the start to his season, completing 90% of his passes for 328-yards with 5 touchdowns. Hampton never quite showed that kind of ability during his previous three seasons, but now as the starter, he’s getting the opportunity. He spread the ball around to his receivers, but will have a huge test against the Irish secondary.
A great first game for Williams, who recorded six tackles and a sack against Western Illinois. The Notre Dame offensive line posses a much bigger test for him, but he’s still shown that he can get to the quarterback. Williams will look to take advantage of the youth of the Irish, but it won’t be easy.
Wide receiver Trayvon Rudolph
Rudolph did a bit of everything during the first game, catching 4 passes for 104-yard and a score, with 2 carries for 67-yards and another touchdown. He’s a bit on the smaller side at 5-foot, 10-inches and 187-pounds, but he’s a playmaker. The Irish secondary is elite, but Rudolph will be moved around to try and create good matchups…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/know-foe-northern-illinois-huskies-180111082.html
Author : Fighting Irish Wire
Publish date : 2024-09-05 18:01:11
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