The 2017 Northern Illinois Huskies featured one of the better defenses throughout the Group of 5 last season, but with only six starters returning, the 2018 squad has plenty of holes to fill if they plan on repeating last years success.
u200bDespite losing defensive stalwarts Bobby Jones IV and Jawuan Johnson, NIU won’t have to worry about a lack of veteran experience as they return the MAC defensive player of the year, Sutton Smith. The 6’1” 237 lb defensive end led the nation in sacks in 2017, accumulating 14 total on the season, a new school record. The former high school running back is a speedy threat off the right side with knack for forcing fumbles.