Jamaal Bass, redshirt senior outside linebacker, may be ready to play against the Arkansas Razorbacks 6 p.m. Saturday, head coach Rod Carey said at a Tuesday news conference.

Bass, a 2013 All-MAC First Team selection and NIU’s leading returning tackler, has been recovering from offseason surgery for a leg injury.

“Bass has a real good chance of being ready to go this week,” Carey said. “We’re going to know a lot more after [Tuesday], but just knowing how he’s been progressing I think he has a real good shot to play this week.”

Bass’ return could be a big boost to the Huskies’ defense, which faces one of the top rushing units in the country. The Razorbacks average 362 rushing yards per game, which is third in the Football Bowl Subdivision, and their 14 rushing touchdowns are second-most in the FBS.

Saturday, the Razorbacks ran for 438 yards and seven touchdowns in a 49-28 victory over the Texas Tech Red Raiders on the road.