Linebackers – B

If there was a linebacking unit that looked like it could contain NIU running back Garrett Wolfe on paper, it’s Indiana State’s.

Of course, that is if they don’t become engulfed by NIU’s offensive line that averages a little over 291 pounds.

This unit is small, but quick. The average weight of its four leading tacklers is 213 pounds.

Scooter Archie leads Indiana State with 28 tackles this season. That’s over nine tackles a game for the 5-foot-10, 195-pound weak side linebacker.

Senior Andy Jones operates opposite of Archie on the outside, and has corralled 17 ball-carriers while grabbing one interception.

Then there’s middle linebackers Brandon Logan and back-up Jayden Everett, who have come together for 44 stops.

Though small, the linebackers have been Indiana State’s most productive unit on defense in 2006.

Secondary – C

The defensive backfield allowed less passing yards and touchdowns than Indiana State’s rushing defense.

Junior safety Rafael Price heads the secondary with 20 tackles and one interception.

But fellow safety Bryan Jackson’s 100-yard interception for a touchdown Sept. 9 against Eastern Illinois may garner more attention. Jackson, not to be confused with Indiana State wide receiver Brian Jackson, has 13 tackles.

At cornerback sits two 180-pound seniors in Kyle James and Michael Roberts. James leads the group with 21 tackles while Roberts has registered 14.

Also, six-foot, 200-pound freshman Donye McCleskey has notched some time at safety for the Sycamores. The rookie has seven tackles in three games.

Defensive Line – C

Indiana State’s defense could be in for a long day by taking on NIU running back Garrett Wolfe, who leads the NCAA with 210 rushing yards per game.

Over three games, Indiana State’s defense has allowed 872 yards on the ground as its stout defensive line has failed to produce many tackles.

Senior Cory Blunk has collected 10 tackles with his 300-pound frame, but is listed second on the depth chart. Starting defensive tackles Will McDonald and 280-pound Penny Stokes have combined for eight stops.

The line is flanked by senior ends Madison Miller and Shonda Faulkner. Faulkner weighs 215 pounds and is second on the line with 15 tackles. Miller leads the group with 17 stops and has Sycamores’ lone sack on the year.

The facts

Indiana State Sycamores breakdown

Head coach

Lou West

Offense

Multiple

Defense

4-3

What to expect

The Huskies should have no problems moving the ball against the Indiana State defense. Expect NIU running back Garrett Wolfe to have a huge day and break 250 yards on the ground — if he’s not pulled by the third quarter that is.