Now that the non-conference slate is over, it is time to focus on the real challenge at hand and that is the Mid-American conference gauntlet that starts this weekend vs. Central Michigan at home. The main word is "focus" this week as the Huskies weren't last year as they surprisingly lost 48-41. Northern Illinois is looking for some revenge.

Here are some links to whet your appetite:

Huskie Wire | Film studies pay off

Huskies football hope to redeem themselves against Central Michigan - Northern Star Online: News

The Morning Sun - Q & A with Northern Illinois beat writer Steve Nitz of the Daily Chronicle

Huskie Wire | Target on their back as MAC play starts

Jordan Lynch counts on defense in tough situations - Northern Star Online: News

Tight ends often overlooked in football - Northern Star Online: News

TommyLee Lewis a 'receiving threat' on the football field - Northern Star Online: News

Northern Illinois Opens MAC Play versus CMU at Home - Northern Illinois Official Athletic Site

Profiles in Profiteroles: The mighty MAC | Campus Union

Sept. 25 Dave Doeren news conference | HuskieWire.com

Huskie Wire | News conference notes

Mid-American Conference: Four wins over BCS-conference opponents puts Mid-American Conference in spotlight - Chicago Tribune

Huskie Wire | NITZ: Packed race in MAC West

Huskies to focus on MAC play - Northern Star Online: News

Football coach earns his first 'dog-bone' - Northern Star Online: News

Lynch Earns MAC West Co-Offensive Player of the Week - Northern Illinois Official Athletic Site

Monday Rewind: Northern Illinois | Tale of the Tait | KUsports.com

Huskie Wire | MAC teleconference notes

Northern Illinois Vs. Kansas Final Score: Huskies Complete 4th-Quarter Comeback To Defeat Jayhawks, 30-23 - SBNation.com

Kansas Vs. Northern Illinois 2012: Huskies Celebrate Huge Win, Move To 3-1 - SB Nation Chicago

A Smooth Transition - Northern Illinois Official Athletic Site

Perseverance Pays Off for Jacques - Northern Illinois Official Athletic Site