NIU’s defensive secondary has given up some big plays this season.

With a high-powered Western Michigan team coming into DeKalb Saturday, things won’t get any easier for a struggling Huskies’ secondary.

If NIU has any chance of winning, they must contain Broncos’ quarterback Alex Carder and the receiving corps.

“As a defense, we just have to do our assignments, understand our alignments and play the way we’re capable of playing,” said Huskies’ cornerback Rashaan Melvin.

Last week against Kent State, the NIU’s defensive line put consistent pressure on the quarterback, which made it an easier game for the secondary in terms of coverage.

“It’s good to watch the big guys get back there and take the pressure off the secondary,” said Huskies’ safety Dechane Durante.

This week, NIU’s defensive backfield will face arguably its best passing game opponent this season besides Wisconsin.

The talent is there for the Huskies’ secondary, and they believe they will be able to step up to this week’s challenge as long as the execution is there.

Carder has a flurry of options in the passing game, which could make a it long day for NIU’s secondary.

“The offense has a good passing attack,” Durante said. “I think [Carder] gets it out to his receivers very well. This game, we’ll have to play well to keep up with it.”