The preliminary hearing for three NIU football players who allegedly beat up two NIU students in November begins Thursday.

NIU student Joseph Marconi suffered a broken nose, concussion and two black eyes, and Shawn Doyle’s head required 14 stitches after the fight near the Amnesia night club, 1000 W. Lincoln Hwy.

Defensive tackle Tom Osteen, 21, was charged with two counts of aggravated battery Nov. 21. Halfback Brett Schroeder, 20, and cornerback Rich Favor, 21, each were charged with one count of aggravated battery.

Doyle refused to comment on the case and Marconi could not be reached for comment.

The preliminary hearing originally was slated to begin Jan. 24 but was continued. During the hearing, the court will determine if there is probable cause to take the case any further in the judicial system.

Bill Brady, Osteen’s attorney, said he is ready to begin the preliminary hearing Thursday. Schroeder’s attorney, James Buck, said he is ready to begin the hearing, also.

Favor’s attorney, Timothy Johnson, could not be reached for comment.

Schroeder refused to comment on the case on the advice of his attorney but said he would be willing to talk when the case is over.

In November, former head football coach Jerry Pettibone said the three players were suspended from the team pending the outcome of the incident.