Northen Illinois played a tough fist half against Iowa last week. They blocked a punt and picked off a well thrown ball from Nate Stanley. Overall though they never came close to challenging Iowa for the win. Iowa’s defensive line really gave NIU problems and I predict Utah’s will do the same. Iowa was able to get pressure without bringing extra pressure. It was all about the defensive line causing issues. Utah has a better defensive line than Iowa. The line is Utah (-11) and I like the Utes to cover. Here are some of the plays that stood out to me while I was breaking down NIU this morning.
Iowa’s defensive line steps up big again in the 4th quarter against NIU forcing the safety. NIU shouldn’t be able to move the ball much against Utah. NIU isn’t all that talented on offense. Utah should win by 21. @GuntherandBen @ESPN700 pic.twitter.com/cB3Y7g83yv
— KYLE F GUNTHER (@GuntherESPN700) September 6, 2018
Iowa’s defensive line engulfs the NIU left tackle here for the strip sack. Utah’s -D-lone is better than Iowa’s. Utah should get great pressure on NIU. @GuntherandBen @ESPN700 pic.twitter.com/4VU4EEFywn
— KYLE F GUNTHER (@GuntherESPN700) September 6, 2018
This is great coverage from Northern Illinois. Not a bad throw from Iowa just a great play made by the corner. Utah must be cleaner in the throw game this week to avoid losing the turnover battle again. @GuntherandBen @ESPN700 pic.twitter.com/DKxZDVGzod
— KYLE F GUNTHER (@GuntherESPN700) September 6, 2018