Northern Illinois’ nation-leading 17-game road winning streak came to a screeching halt Saturday night in Fayetteville, Ark., as Arkansas struck early and often in a 52-14 rout. Turnovers and special teams breakdowns contributed to the game getting out of hand for NIU. The Huskies hope to regroup and get ready for three straight Mid-American Conference home games after taking this week off.
Offense: C+
NIU managed 303 yards of total offense but failed to convert on a fourth-and-3 from the Arkansas 25 when the Razorbacks led just 7-0. A key fumble by quarterback Drew Hare after a sack led to an easy Arkansas score. Hare otherwise played well, connecting on 18 of 29 passes for 179 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Defense: C-
Arkansas scored touchdowns on the opening kickoff return and a fumble by the offense. Yet NIU’s defense was culpable for the Razorbacks’ 427 yards of total offense and 24 first downs. NIU strong safety Marlon Moore was credited with 14 tackles, including two tackles for a loss.
Special teams: C
The opening kickoff was returned 97 yards for a touchdown by Arkansas’ Korliss Marshall. Tyler Wedel did another fine job of punting, averaging 46.4 yards on five punts, including one that landed inside the 20.
Coaching: C-
Coach Rod Carey deferred to the second half after winning the opening coin toss. The Arkansas crowd was able to get into the game immediately with the opening kickoff return for a score and the Huskies never rebounded.
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