One could argue that NIU has little to play for. It got bowl eligible last time out but can't get to the MAC title game and still has its home finale TK. Top running back Antario Brown (567 yards, four TDs rushing, 204 yards, one TD receiving) is apparently out as is starting corner Amariyun Knighten. Defending league champion Miami can all but put itself back in the MAC title game with a win in its home finale. It has won five straight in largely dominant fashion. Northern is 1-4 when it doesn't run for at least 190 yards this season and Miami has given up that much only twice and both against power conference foes.