I really can't say enough about the defense in this game.  Yes they had their mistakes here and there, but all game they were disciplined and really got to the QB at will.  The best part is that the defense is extremely young.  The only impact players that will be graduating are DE Brandon Bice and LB Cory Hanson.

The real problem was on the offensive side of the ball, where nothing could get going all game long.  Chandler Harnish didn't play well at all this game.  He was terrible.  There were overthrows, near-interceptions, fumbled snaps.  The kid couldn't hit a broad side of a barn.  There wasn't good communication with the young WR corps either.  Backup QB DeMarcus Grady even replaced him in the 4th quarter.

I hope that freshmen A.J. Hill and Jordan Lynch payed attention to this game.  The quarterback spot is WIDE OPEN for competition come Spring practice.  Even incoming freshman Miles Osei could get his licks in behind center in Fall practice.  You need a great QB to be successful in the MAC.

The offensive line was average, but the lack of a downfield passing game put them at an even worse disadvantage.  Some guys are going to have to step up big-time in the next couple years to help move the pile.  The OL really hasn't had a swagger since Doug Free graduated back in 2006.

Another positive of this game: Chad Spann rushed 20 times for 93 yds and finishes his season with 1,038 yds.  The first 1K rusher for NIU since Justin Anderson in 2007.

I'm really at a loss for words.  The talent differential was extremely clear.  Coach Kill has some work to do on the recruiting trail in the next couple weeks.  It's a simple pitch to recruits: "Come here and you will play on our offense as a freshman"

Your thoughts on the game?