Asked why NIU and not W. Mich: Western Mich has been terrible on Defense, allowing 33.8 points (117th nationally) and giving up 430 yards per game (also 117th). They are 100th in Rushing defense giving up 173 yards per, and 113th in pass defense while NIU has a much better Defense. NIU's defense allows only 275.4 yards per contest which is 7th nationally, while their Pass Defense has been dominant allowing only 164.6 yards per game which is 11th nationally, and a giving up a meager 17.6 points per game (contrasted to W mich giving up 33).
Offensively, Huskies of NIU have the advantage as they are a rushing team, ranking 27th best in NCAA and rushing the ball 58% of the time, meanwhile W Mich gives up 175 yards on the ground per game, and is worse against the pass as noted above. Broncos also rush 58% of the time, but wont find much success picking up yards against Northern Illinois rush defense which ranks 23rd against the run. W Mich also wont be able to throw successfully against the 9th rated pass defense in the country.
Defense travels, especially in these conference battles.