COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREVIEW: #85 NORTHERN ILLINOIS

OFFENSE

The Huskies were one of the best offensive units in the country the last few years under quarterback Chandler Harnish. The potent attack helped mask a weakness on the defensive side as Northern Illinois pummeled teams en route to finishing the 2011 season with nine straight wins and averaging 38.3 points. New offensive coordinator Mike Dunbar brings a wealth of experience that will ease the loss of Harnish.

Junior quarterback Jordan Lynch was declared the starter before the start of spring practice. Lynch isn’t expected to put up Harnish-like numbers, but he must move the chains, limit turnovers and become a more vocal leader.

The Huskies have big question marks along the offensive line and at running back. Left guard Logan Pegram is the lone returning starter on the line. Junior running back Akeem Daniels is the most experienced in a corps of tailbacks that lacks a proven playmaker. Last year, Daniels rushed for 303 yards on 56 carries and scored three touchdowns.

READ MORE: http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/top-25/northern-illinois-2012