I've been impressed with the Aztec defense this season. When they've locked in, they've dominated teams on that side of the ball. Offensively, they've shown the balance and the consistency game over game, enough for me to trust them on the road vs NIU. The Huskies defense has been a one-dimensional one and their one dimension, run game, is where the Aztecs are strongest at stopping.

San Diego State shocked California as two-touchdown underdogs, winning 34-0 last week. They are traveling to a different time zone for the first time this season to face a Huskies team that has lost to both Maryland and Mississippi State, which together have an 8-0 record. San Diego State's only true road test this season was a 36–13 loss at Washington State, highlighting its vulnerability away from home. NIU has played a much tougher schedule, and I will ride with the home underdog in this spot.

Strange line here. I know San Diego State played great against Cal and Northern Illinois got blown out by Mississippi State, but I'm buying the Huskies as the better team, especially at home. In their one road game this season, SDSU got whacked by a lousy Washington State game. Expect the Huskies to get back on the winning track here. Northern Illinois 23, San Diego State 16.