Homecoming is here, and the NIU football team is ready.

“It’s pretty special,” tight end Raymond Roberts said. “This is the first one where I’ll get a lot of playing time.

“We know we will probably have our biggest crowd. When you’ve got fans, you play better. We’ve practiced well this week.”

“Homecoming’s always a big game,” center Mike Westrick said. “The alumni will be backing us up. We want to put on a good show for them.”

“Homecoming is really special,” tight end/linebacker Cory Blake said. “It’s a chance to get all fired up for a game. It’s a boost to do well, especially since we’re on a three-game losing streak.”

The Huskies (1-4) want to stop their skid with a victory over Western Michigan this Saturday afternoon at Huskie Stadium.

Last year, the Huskies capped Homecoming week with a 73-18 win over Fresno State in front of 18,067—the biggest crowd of the year.

“That was a memorable game,” Roberts said. “That was something special.”

“It was probably the biggest win we’ve had,” Westrick said.

“It was probably the best Homecoming we’ve had here,” senior linebacker Steve Henriksen said.

“We don’t like losing at home,” Blake said. “Homecoming last year was very special. We had really good fan support. They tore down the goal post. Support is really important.”

And really appreciated.

“It’s not like high school,” fullback Adam Dach said. “But a lot of people show up (for the game). That’s always nice.”

For the Huskie seniors, a win Saturday is especially desired.

“We’re excited,” Henriksen said. “It’s my last Homecoming and I’m excited. It’s another chance to get better.”