Team Information
Ground | Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium |
City | DeKalb, Illinois |
Conference | Mid-American, |
Nickname | Huskies |
About Northern Illinois Huskies Football
The Northern Illinois Huskies football team, representing Northern Illinois University in the NCAA Division I FBS, boasts a rich history since its establishment in 1899. Headed by Coach Thomas Hammock in his fifth season, the team plays home games at Huskie Stadium in DeKalb, Illinois. Competing in the Mid-American Conference's West Division, the Huskies have clinched numerous titles, including six MAC championships. With a stadium capacity 23,595 at Huskie Stadium, the team has participated in twelve post-season bowl games, including the notable 2013 Orange Bowl. Their distinctive colors are cardinal and black, and their mascot is Victor E. Huskie.
Name of Team | Northern Illinois Huskies Football |
First season | 1899 |
Athletic director | Sean Frazier |
Head coach | Thomas Hammock |
Stadium | Huskie Stadium |
Location | DeKalb, Illinois |
Conference | Mid-American |
Division | West |
Field surface | FieldTurf |
Conference titles | 12 |
Division titles | 12 |
Fight Song | Huskie Fight Song |
Mascot | Victor E. Huskie |
Rivalries | Ball State, Bronze Stalk Trophy, Miami (OH), Mallory Cup |
Consensus All-Americans | 2 |
Northern Illinois Huskies Football History
The Northern Illinois Huskies football program, established in 1899, has undergone a rich and evolving history. After early successes, including their first championship in 1938, the team experienced ups and downs, joining and leaving conferences. The Joe Novak era (1996–2007) saw a turnaround, marked by consecutive winning seasons. Jerry Kill (2008–2010) brought three bowl appearances, and Dave Doeren (2011–2012) secured an MAC Championship. Rod Carey (2013–2018) maintained competitiveness, clinching several MAC titles. Thomas Hammock (2019–present) took the helm, navigating challenges like a winless 2020 season. The 2021 season, led by QB Rocky Lombardi, showcased a MAC title win but ended with a loss in the Cure Bowl.
Northern Illinois Huskies Football Coach
Thomas Hammock, the current head coach of the Northern Illinois Huskies football team since 2019, brings a unique blend of experience and passion to the program. A former running back for the Huskies from 1999 to 2002, Hammock transitioned to coaching, notably serving as the running backs coach for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens from 2014 to 2018. Returning to NIU as head coach, Hammock has navigated challenges, including a pandemic-shortened season in 2020. While facing adversity, he continues to shape the team, focusing on resilience, skill development, and a commitment to the program's rich legacy.
Coach | Tenure |
John A. H. Keith | 1899–1903 |
Dixie Fleager | 1904 |
Harry Sauthoff | 1905 |
Nelson A. Kellogg | 1906–1909 |
William Wirtz | 1910–1916 |
No team | 1917–1919 |
Paul Harrison | 1920–1922 |
William Muir | 1923–1925 |
Roland Cowell | 1926–1928 |
Chick Evans | 1929–1954 |
Bob Kahler | 1955 |
Howard Fletcher | 1956–1968 |
Doc Urich | 1969–1970 |
Jerry Ippoliti | 1971–1975 |
Pat Culpepper | 1976–1979 |
Bill Mallory | 1980–1983 |
Lee Corso | 1984 |
Jerry Pettibone | 1985–1990 |
Charlie Sadler | 1991–1995 |
Joe Novak | 1996–2007 |
Jerry Kill | 2008–2010 |
Tom Matukewicz | 2010 |
Dave Doeren | 2011–2012 |
Rod Carey | 2012–2018 |
Thomas Hammock | 2019–present |
Northern Illinois Huskies Football Stadium: Huskie Stadium
Huskie Stadium, located on the campus of Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Illinois, is the home field of the NIU Huskies football team. Opened in 1965, the stadium has undergone expansions and renovations, currently accommodating 24,000 spectators. Notable for hosting NIU's historic victories, it saw successes against prominent teams like Alabama and Iowa State. The stadium is planned for renovation, aiming to create a horseshoe shape, increase capacity to 30,000-35,000, and introduce luxury seating sections. The renovations, part of a broader $138 million overhaul, align with NIU's commitment to enhancing athletic facilities.
Northern Illinois Huskies Football Rivals
Northern Illinois Huskies Football shares a spirited rivalry with Ball State, marked by the annual battle for the Bronze Stalk Trophy. With a series lead of 25–23–2 through the 2022 season, the competition has been fiercely contested. The intensity of the matchups adds an extra layer of excitement to the football season, creating a tradition that fans eagerly anticipate. These clashes between Northern Illinois and Ball State showcase the competitive spirit and longstanding history between the two teams, making each encounter a crucial and thrilling event for players and fans.
Northern Illinois Huskies Football Record and Stats
Northern Illinois Huskies Football boasts a rich history of remarkable achievements, championship victories, and consistent competitiveness. Over the years, the team has etched its name in the annals of college football, showcasing prowess in various conferences and championships.
Championship Conferences
The Huskies have demonstrated excellence in securing conference championships, reflecting their dominance on the gridiron. Notably, victories in the Illinois Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, Interstate Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, and Mid-American Conference (MAC) underscore their versatility and sustained success over different eras.
Division Championships
Northern Illinois has consistently risen to the top, showcasing a competitive edge in the MAC West and other divisions. These achievements highlight the team's ability to navigate challenging schedules and emerge as leaders within their respective divisions.
Conference Championship Game Appearances
The journey to conference championships often involves navigating the Conference Championship Game, a stage where the best teams vie for supremacy. Northern Illinois' presence in these crucial games, marked by victories and resilient performances, showcases their ability to rise when the stakes are high. These appearances solidify the Huskies' standing as perennial contenders and contribute to the storied legacy of Northern Illinois Huskies Football.
Northern Illinois Huskies Football Roaster
PLAYER | POS | HT | WT | CLASS | HOMETOWN |
Nevan Cremascoli | QB | 6' 2" | 216 lbs | FR | Winnetka, IL |
Ethan Hampton | QB | 6' 3" | 216 lbs | SO | Elburn, IL |
Josh Holst | QB | 6' 4" | 173 lbs | FR | Marengo, IL |
C.J. Jordan | QB | 6' 2" | 210 lbs | SO | Portland, OR |
Mason Kidd | QB | 6' 3" | 209 lbs | FR | Lawrenceville, GA |
Rocky Lombardi | QB | 6' 3" | 223 lbs | SR | Clive, IA |
Antario Brown | RB | 5' 10" | 219 lbs | JR | Savannah, GA |
Kendrell Flowers | RB | 6' 0" | 223 lbs | JR | Columbia, SC |
Garrett Gensler | RB | 6' 0" | 197 lbs | FR | Rochelle, IL |
Greigh Joseph | RB | 5' 11" | 208 lbs | FR | Fayetteville, GA |
Justin Lynch | RB | 6' 1" | 211 lbs | JR | Chicago, IL |
Christian Nash | RB | 5' 11" | 226 lbs | FR | Omaha, NE |
Jaylen Poe | RB | 5' 10" | 207 lbs | FR | Dallas, GA |
Joshua Pridgen | RB | 5' 10" | 168 lbs | FR | Savannah, GA |
Gavin Williams | RB | 5' 11" | 209 lbs | JR | Altoona, IA |
Brock Lampe | FB | 6' 1" | 252 lbs | JR | Kenosha, WI |
Malik Armstrong | WR | 6' 0" | 179 lbs | FR | Joliet, IL |
Kobe Askew | WR | 6' 2" | 192 lbs | FR | Hamilton, GA |
Grayson Barnes | WR | 6' 5" | 215 lbs | JR | Rocklin, CA |
Isaiah Bragg | WR | 5' 9" | 175 lbs | SO | Chicago, IL |
Billy Dozier | WR | 5' 10" | 195 lbs | JR | New Lenox, IL |
Christopher Gore | WR | 5' 11" | 182 lbs | FR | Homewood, IL |
Jalen Johnson | WR | 6' 3" | 205 lbs | FR | Aurora, IL |
Dane Pardridge | WR | 5' 11" | 175 lbs | FR | Dekalb, IL |
Davis Patterson | WR | 6' 4" | 198 lbs | SR | Arlington, VA |
Keyshaun Pipkin | WR | 6' 2" | 212 lbs | FR | Indianapolis, IN |
Eli Reed | WR | 5' 11" | 183 lbs | FR | Downers Grove, IL |
Trayvon Rudolph | WR | 5' 10" | 187 lbs | JR | Crete, IL |
Kacper Rutkiewicz | WR | 5' 8" | 178 lbs | SR | Mount Prospect, IL |
James Smith Jr. | WR | 6' 5" | 172 lbs | FR | Calumet Park, IL |
Kyle Thomas | WR | 6' 2" | 174 lbs | FR | Richton Park, IL |
Cam Thompson | WR | 6' 0" | 198 lbs | FR | Boardman, OH |
Trey Urwiler | WR | 5' 9" | 185 lbs | SO | Mooseheart, IL |
Christion Carter | TE | 6' 7" | 240 lbs | JR | Detroit, MI |
Drew Cassens | TE | 6' 2" | 240 lbs | SO | Downers Grove, IL |
Tyler Gaines | TE | 6' 3" | 219 lbs | FR | Rockford, IL |
Izuchukwu Ozoh | TE | 6' 4" | 250 lbs | SO | Hazel Crest, IL |
Gavin Patrick | TE | 6' 3" | 287 lbs | JR | Middletown, IN |
Chris Stinson | TE | 6' 4" | 218 lbs | FR | Aurora, IL |
Tristen Tewes | TE | 6' 3" | 251 lbs | JR | Pleasant Plains, IL |
Jay'shon Thomas | TE | 6' 4" | 215 lbs | FR | Cataula, GA |
Hyatt Timosciek | TE | 6' 6" | 220 lbs | FR | Lockport, IL |
Evan Buss | OL | 6' 6" | 312 lbs | JR | Kimberly, WI |
John Champe | OL | 6' 4" | 321 lbs | JR | Brookfield, WI |
Abiathar Curry | OL | 6' 3" | 286 lbs | FR | Janesville, WI |
Drew Hoth | OL | 6' 4" | 318 lbs | SO | Cedar Falls, IA |
Landon Hron | OL | 6' 3" | 325 lbs | FR | Hartford, WI |
Bubba Hubbard | OL | 6' 3" | 290 lbs | FR | Bartlett, IL |
Michael Jimmar | OL | 6' 5" | 315 lbs | FR | Plainfield, IL |
J.J. Lippe | OL | 6' 5" | 311 lbs | JR | Milwaukee, WI |
Evan Malcore | OL | 6' 6" | 298 lbs | FR | Sun Prairie, WI |
Christian Medlock | OL | 6' 5" | 304 lbs | FR | Homewood, IL |
Pete Nygra | OL | 6' 4" | 292 lbs | SO | Indianapolis, IN |
Thomas Paasch | OL | 6' 5" | 301 lbs | FR | Green Bay, WI |
Luke Pinnick | OL | 6' 4" | 302 lbs | SO | State Center, IA |
Tyler Pitcel | OL | 6' 4" | 294 lbs | JR | Mukwonago, WI |
Nolan Potter | OL | 6' 6" | 301 lbs | SR | Cedar Rapids, IA |
Matt Schooley | OL | 6' 2" | 298 lbs | JR | Wisconsin Rapids, WI |
Luke Skartvedt | OL | 6' 3" | 325 lbs | FR | Indianapolis, IN |
Seth Thompson | OL | 6' 4" | 292 lbs | JR | Eden Prairie, MN |
Jacob Welch | OL | 6' 6" | 310 lbs | FR | Johnsburg, IL |
Logan Zschernitz | OL | 6' 3" | 305 lbs | JR | Spencer, WI |
Casey Bending | DE | 6' 3" | 221 lbs | FR | Palatine, IL |
Cameron Crowell | DE | 6' 3" | 260 lbs | FR | Columbus, GA |
Ivan Davis | DE | 6' 3" | 232 lbs | JR | Canton, MI |
George Gumbs | DE | 6' 4" | 242 lbs | SO | Chicago, IL |
Pierce Oppong | DE | 6' 3" | 255 lbs | JR | Bloomington, MN |
RaSean Randall | DE | 6' 4" | 218 lbs | FR | Detroit, MI |
Nevaeh Sanders | DE | 6' 4" | 220 lbs | SO | Flint, MI |
Raishein Thomas | DE | 6' 4" | 262 lbs | SR | Racine, WI |
Roy Williams | DE | 6' 6" | 261 lbs | SO | Crestwood, IL |
James Ester | DT | 6' 3" | 298 lbs | SR | Detroit, MI |
Skyler Gill-Howard | DT | 6' 1" | 285 lbs | SO | Milwaukee, WI |
Cade Haberman | DT | 6' 2" | 300 lbs | JR | Blair, NE |
Mark Hensley | DT | 6' 3" | 272 lbs | FR | Labadie, MO |
Reggie Jean | DT | 6' 1" | 292 lbs | FR | Ocoee, FL |
Devonte O'Malley | DT | 6' 2" | 288 lbs | JR | Midlothian, IL |
Ajahvea Robinson | DT | 6' 2" | 265 lbs | FR | Chicago, IL |
Demond Taylor Jr. | DT | 6' 2" | 308 lbs | SR | East Saint Louis, IL |
Jacob Waskow | DT | 6' 2" | 289 lbs | JR | Canton, IL |
Jalonnie Williams | DT | 6' 4" | 286 lbs | SO | Milwaukee, WI |
Keshon Artis | LB | 6' 0" | 246 lbs | SR | Chesapeake, VA |
Phillip Baynes Jr. | LB | 6' 2" | 190 lbs | FR | Social Circle, GA |
Jaden Dolphin | LB | 6' 2" | 220 lbs | JR | Des Plaines, IL |
Jake Gassaway | LB | 6' 0" | 206 lbs | FR | Omaha, NE |
DaRon Gilbert | LB | 6' 1" | 222 lbs | SR | Detroit, MI |
Chase Hutchinson | LB | 6' 2" | 210 lbs | FR | West Des Moines, IA |
Tyler Jackson | LB | 6' 0" | 226 lbs | SR | Alief, TX |
Ryan King | LB | 6' 0" | 218 lbs | SO | Wildwood, MO |
Filip Maciorowski | LB | 6' 3" | 196 lbs | FR | Carol Stream, IL |
Jordan Monroe | LB | 6' 1" | 235 lbs | JR | Covina, CA |
Rashon Myles Jr. | LB | 6' 1" | 209 lbs | FR | Brownsburg, IN |
Nathan Ruble | LB | 6' 1" | 222 lbs | FR | Festus, MO |
Quinn Urwiler | LB | 6' 0" | 220 lbs | JR | Mooseheart, IL |
Gabriel Amegatcher | CB | 6' 2" | 195 lbs | SR | Romeoville, IL |
Owen Belman | CB | 6' 1" | 195 lbs | JR | Davenport, IA |
Javaughn Byrd | CB | 6' 0" | 186 lbs | JR | Milwaukee, WI |
Andre Cobb | CB | 6' 1" | 177 lbs | FR | Naperville, IL |
Cam'Ron Dabney | CB | 5' 11" | 186 lbs | JR | Atlanta, GA |
Jacob Finley | CB | 5' 11" | 176 lbs | FR | Birmingham, AL |
Amariyun Knighten | CB | 6' 0" | 165 lbs | FR | Hollywood, FL |
Jashon Prophete | CB | 5' 11" | 187 lbs | JR | Pompano Beach, FL |
Mahki Rolle | CB | 6' 1" | 184 lbs | FR | North Miami Beach, FL |
Louis Frye | DB | 6' 0" | 209 lbs | SO | Teaneck, NJ |
Jordan Hansen | DB | 6' 1" | 192 lbs | SR | Arlington Heights, IL |
Devin Lafayette | DB | 6' 2" | 195 lbs | JR | Brunswick, GA |
Ty Myles | DB | 5' 10" | 186 lbs | SO | Blackshear, GA |
Joey Rattin | DB | 6' 0" | 217 lbs | JR | Palatine, IL |
Santana Banner | S | 6' 3" | 195 lbs | FR | Flint, MI |
CJ Brown | S | 5' 11" | 190 lbs | SR | Canton, MI |
Tyler Gentile | S | 6' 0" | 188 lbs | FR | Oak Forest, IL |
Muhammed Jammeh | S | 6' 1" | 196 lbs | SO | Detroit, MI |
Cyrus McGarrell | S | 6' 2" | 187 lbs | SO | Windsor, Canada |
Trey Porter | S | 6' 0" | 189 lbs | FR | Des Moines, IA |
Ethan Tierney | S | 6' 0" | 182 lbs | FR | Dekalb, IL |
Nate Valcarcel | S | 6' 1" | 192 lbs | JR | Greenfield, WI |
Jake Seibert | PK | 6' 1" | 197 lbs | SO | Cincinnati, OH |
Danny Vuckovic | PK | 6' 1" | 206 lbs | FR | Kildeer, IL |
Kanon Woodill | PK | 5' 11" | 167 lbs | SO | Plainfield, IL |
Tom Foley | P | 6' 4" | 234 lbs | JR | Peoria, IL |
Isaac Hatfield | LS | 6' 2" | 227 lbs | SO | Georgetown, IN |
Northern Illinois Huskies Football Schedule
DATE | OPPONENT | RESULT | W-L (CONF) | HI PASS | HI RUSH | HI REC | |
Sep 2 | @ Boston College | W27-24 OT | 1-0 (0-0) | Lombardi 165 | Williams 61 | Rutkiewicz 46 | |
Sep 10 | vs Southern Illinois | L14-11 | 1-1 (0-0) | Lombardi 297 | Brown 61 | Rutkiewicz 139 | |
Sep 17 | @ Nebraska | L35-11 | 1-2 (0-0) | Lombardi 73 | Brown 16 | Patterson 30 | |
Sep 23 | vs Tulsa | L22-14 | 1-3 (0-0) | Hampton 97 | Lynch 84 | Barnes 40 | |
Oct 1 | @ Toledo | L35-33 | 1-4 (0-1) | Lombardi 258 | Brown 152 | Rutkiewicz 45 | |
Oct 8 | @ Akron | W55-14 | 2-4 (1-1) | Lombardi 191 | Brown 280 | Rutkiewicz 70 | |
Oct 15 | vs Ohio | W23-13 | 3-4 (2-1) | Lombardi 172 | Williams 55 | Barnes 66 | |
Oct 22 | vs Eastern Michigan | W20-13 | 4-4 (3-1) | Lombardi 173 | Williams 80 | Rudolph 55 | |
Nov 1 | @ Central Michigan | L37-31 | 4-5 (3-2) | Lombardi 298 | Brown 167 | Rudolph 170 | |
Nov 8 | vs Ball State | L20-17 | 4-6 (3-3) | Lombardi 141 | Brown 73 | Rudolph 57 | |
Nov 15 | vs Western Michigan | W24-0 | 5-6 (4-3) | Lombardi 92 | Brown 159 | Carter 33 | |
Nov 25 | @ Kent State | 10:30 PM |