Northern Illinois and Fresno State meet in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl on December 23 at Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho. Both teams are coming into this game with missing key players, including their starting quarterbacks, due to transfer portal moves. This bowl game marks an opportunity for both programs to end the season on a positive note after navigating challenging transitions throughout the year.
The Huskies are led by redshirt freshman quarterback Josh Holst, who steps in after Ethan Hampton entered the transfer portal. Holst showed promise in his first start, displaying dual-threat ability despite a narrow loss to Toledo. On the other side, Fresno State will likely rely on sophomore Joshua Wood or freshman Jayden Mandal to run the offense. The Bulldogs have also faced significant roster turnover but earned their bowl eligibility through resilience.
Northern Illinois Huskies
For Northern Illinois, the story of the season has been adapting to adversity. The Huskies secured bowl eligibility with a balanced offensive approach, ranking 16th nationally in rushing yards per game. Running back Gavin Williams has been a key contributor, adding stability to the offense while the quarterback position shifted late in the season. Holst’s mobility provides an additional layer of complexity for opposing defenses.
Defensively, the Huskies have been solid against the run, allowing just 138.7 yards per game. Their front seven will look to disrupt Fresno State’s rhythm early and capitalize on any uncertainty with the Bulldogs’ quarterback situation. Northern Illinois’ ability to control the clock with their ground game could be a decisive factor in this matchup.
Fresno State Bulldogs
Fresno State enters the game with an interim coach and an eye toward the future, as Matt Entz is set to take over as head coach after this season. Despite the changes, the Bulldogs showed flashes of potential throughout the year, particularly with quarterback Mikey Keene, who threw for 2,892 yards before entering the transfer portal. The team has leaned on its running game in recent weeks, led by a versatile backfield and the dynamic rushing ability of Joshua Wood in the Wildcat formation.
On defense, the Bulldogs boast a strong pass rush, averaging 1.8 sacks per game. Defensive tackle Brandon Brown anchors the unit and has been a consistent force up front. Fresno State will need its defense to set the tone early and force Northern Illinois into passing situations, where the Huskies have struggled this season.
Prediction
This matchup is likely to be a low-scoring affair, with both teams missing key offensive playmakers. Northern Illinois’ advantage in the running game and Holst’s ability to extend plays with his legs could give the Huskies the edge. However, Fresno State’s defense and home-field advantage on the blue turf make this a tough game to call.
Look for both teams to focus on ball control and limiting turnovers. The outcome may hinge on which team can establish an early lead and sustain drives in the second half.
- Pick: Northern Illinois 20, Fresno State 17
