The Iowa Hawkeyes are set to kick off their 2026 football season with a highly anticipated non-conference matchup against the Northern Illinois Huskies on Saturday afternoon. Iowa enters this game as a strong favorite, but the Huskies have a history of pulling off surprising upsets, including a notable victory against a top-5 Notre Dame team in 2024.
Under the guidance of head coach Thomas Hammock, who took over the program in 2019, Northern Illinois has remained competitive, participating in three bowl games and securing two victories during his tenure. This season marks a significant transition for the Huskies as they move from the Mid-American Conference (MAC) to the Mountain West Conference, which will present new challenges and opportunities for the team.
While Northern Illinois may not be known for flashy play, they possess several talented players who could pose a threat to Iowa's defense. Here’s a closer look at some key Huskies to watch during the season opener:
Quarterback Taron Dickens
2025 Stats: 74.2% completion rate, 3,508 passing yards, 38 touchdown passes, 2 interceptions
Taron Dickens is expected to take the reins as the starting quarterback for Northern Illinois. The Western Carolina transfer made headlines when he joined the Huskies in July after a stint at North Carolina. Standing at 5-foot-11, Dickens showcased his ability to be both efficient and explosive in the passing game during the previous season. His talent is a rare find at a mid-major program, and Iowa will need to focus on containing him to prevent any big plays.
Running Back Telly Johnson Jr.
2025 Stats: 124 carries, 712 rushing yards, 4 touchdowns, 5.7 yards per carry
Telly Johnson Jr. is the most experienced returning skill position player for the Huskies. The 5-foot-11 running back excelled last season despite sharing carries with teammate Chavon Wright, who is no longer with the team. With Johnson now leading the backfield, Iowa's defensive line will face the challenge of stopping him, especially given their own recent changes on the defensive front.
Wide Receiver DeAree Rogers
2025 Stats: 46 receptions, 506 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns
DeAree Rogers returns as the leading receiver for Northern Illinois, having managed to put up solid numbers last season despite inconsistent quarterback play. The 5-foot-11 receiver accounted for nearly half of the Huskies' total receiving yards in 2025. With Dickens now at quarterback, Rogers may finally have the stability he needs to elevate his game further. He will be a primary target for Iowa's secondary to focus on during the contest.
Defensive Lineman Jay'Shon Thomas
2025 Stats: 21 total tackles, 2 sacks
On the defensive side, Jay'Shon Thomas stands out as a key returner for the Huskies. At 6-foot-4 and 246 pounds, he had a limited role last season but made an impact in the snaps he received. Thomas will face a formidable Iowa offensive line, but his potential to disrupt plays could be crucial as the Huskies look to establish their defensive identity against a powerful opponent.
As the Hawkeyes prepare for this intriguing matchup, the performance of these Northern Illinois players could significantly influence the outcome of the game. Iowa will need to be on high alert to ensure they start their season on a winning note.
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