In Week 2 of the 2025 college football season, the Northern Illinois Huskies travel to face the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium in College Park, MD. The game, slated for Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM, will be broadcast on BTN. Both teams enter the contest with a 1-0 record, having secured victories in their season openers.
Northern Illinois comes off a narrow 19-17 win over the Holy Cross Crusaders, showcasing a strong rushing attack with 180 yards on the ground. Despite some offensive challenges, including two fumbles, the Huskies managed to control the game with 17 first downs compared to Holy Cross’s 11. Their last postseason appearance saw them defeat Fresno State 28-20 in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.
Maryland started their season on a high note, defeating Florida Atlantic 39-7 at home. The Terrapins displayed a balanced offensive attack, amassing 268 passing yards and 112 rushing yards. Notably, their defense was effective, forcing six interceptions from the Owls, setting a strong foundation as they host Northern Illinois under the lights at SECU Stadium.
Maryland vs Northern Illinois At a Glance
- Game Location: SECU Stadium in College Park, MD
- Game Date and Time: Friday, September 5, 2025 at 7:30 PM
- Television Broadcast: BTN
- Maryland Record: 1-0 (Home 1-0)
- Northern Illinois Record: 1-0 (Home 1-0)
- Betting Odds: Maryland -850, Northern Illinois +576
Maryland Terrapins Set to Continue Strong Start Against Northern Illinois
Offensive Insights
The Maryland Terrapins have started the 2025 season with an impressive offensive display, scoring 39 points against Florida Atlantic. They rank 22nd nationally in points scored, reflecting a potent offensive unit. The passing game has been particularly effective, with 268 yards in their opening game, ranking them 40th in the nation.
Quarterback Malik Washington leads the charge with 258 passing yards, placing him 39th nationally. His ability to connect with receivers like Shaleak Knotts and Kaleb Webb will be crucial. The rushing attack, although not as dominant, still managed to contribute 112 yards.
Defensive Dominance
Defensively, Maryland allowed just seven points in their opening game, showcasing their ability to stifle opponents. Their defense ranks 4th nationally in points against, a testament to their cohesive unit. Maryland’s secondary was particularly effective, securing six interceptions, which ranks them 7th.
The Terrapins’ defensive front also made an impact with three sacks, placing them 5th nationally. This combination of pass rush and secondary play makes Maryland a formidable defensive opponent. Opponents will need to find ways to penetrate this well-rounded defense.
Key Players to Watch
On offense, keep an eye on tight end Dorian Fleming, who led the team with six receptions and a touchdown. His presence as a reliable target provides Washington with options in critical situations. Additionally, running back DeJuan Williams, with 54 rushing yards and three receptions, adds versatility to their offense.
Defensively, players like Bryce Jenkins and Delmar White, although listed as questionable, can be pivotal if they play. Their presence on the line could further enhance Maryland’s defensive prowess. The team’s depth will be tested if these players are unavailable.
Maryland’s Upcoming Schedule
The Terrapins face Northern Illinois in their next game, with another home contest against Towson following. Both games present opportunities to solidify their strong start. These matchups will test Maryland’s ability to maintain momentum and continue their winning ways.
Maryland Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Day Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Home Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
Maryland’s betting trends are favorable, with a perfect record against the spread and straight up in their recent games. Their ability to cover as favorites suggests confidence in their game plan and execution. With a strong start to the season, the Terrapins will look to continue their success against upcoming opponents.
Northern Illinois Huskies Set to Tackle the Terrapins
Offensive Overview
The Northern Illinois Huskies have had a mixed start to their 2025 season. They scored 19 points in their opening game, placing them 36th in the rankings for points. The passing game struggled, accumulating just 109 yards, ranking 117th, while their rushing game showed more promise with 180 yards, placing them 54th.
Despite the low passing yardage, the Huskies achieved 17 first downs, ranking 24th. This indicates a balanced offensive approach, with a heavier reliance on the ground game. Improving their aerial attack will be crucial in upcoming games.
Defensive Prowess
The Huskies’ defense started strong, conceding only 17 points in their first game, placing them 13th in points against. With 2 sacks, their pass rush ranks 6th, showing early signs of a disruptive front. They also excelled in creating turnovers, securing 1 interception, tied for 2nd place.
Although they have yet to recover a fumble, their defensive ranks remain impressive. Maintaining this defensive intensity will be key as they face tougher opponents in the coming weeks.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Josh Holst threw for 101 yards and 1 interception in his first game, leading the offense. Running back Chavon Wright spearheaded the ground attack with 77 rushing yards and 1 touchdown. Wide receiver DeAree Rogers caught 7 passes for 73 yards, showing potential as a reliable target.
Kicker Andrew Glass contributed significantly, converting 2 field goals and an extra point, adding 7 points to the Huskies’ tally. These players will need to step up to help Northern Illinois build on their winning start.
Upcoming Challenges
The Huskies’ next game is against the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium. Playing on the road presents a different challenge, and Northern Illinois will need to adapt quickly. The Huskies will be looking to build on their season opener with a strong performance.
Injury Concerns
The Huskies face several injury issues, with key players like Jalen Macon and Malik Armstrong listed as questionable. Defensive players like Jake Gassaway and Samir Senenat are ruled out, impacting their depth. These injuries could affect their ability to perform at full strength.
Northern Illinois Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Day Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Home Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
Maryland vs Northern Illinois Prediction: Over 46.5
Maryland enters this game with an impressive offensive display, scoring 39 points in their season opener. Their passing game, ranked 40th, complements their ability to score, which could challenge Northern Illinois’ defense. Given Maryland’s offensive potential, they are likely to push the game’s total higher.
Northern Illinois showed balanced offensive capabilities in their first game, particularly with a strong rushing attack. Averaging 19 points and 180 rushing yards per game, they have the tools to contribute to a higher-scoring contest. This balanced attack can help Northern Illinois keep pace with Maryland.
Defensively, both teams have been solid but not impregnable. While Maryland allowed only 7 points in their first game, Northern Illinois was still able to reach the end zone twice against a different opponent. This suggests a game where both offenses can find some success.
With the consensus total set at 46.5, both teams’ offensive capabilities, coupled with their defensive vulnerabilities, point towards a game surpassing this mark. I predict the final score will exceed the total, making the ‘Over 46.5’ a favorable pick.
- Maryland vs Northern Illinois Prediction: Over 46.5
- Maryland vs Northern Illinois Score: Maryland 31 – Northern Illinois 20
