Former NIU linebacker Marlon Watson will have a homecoming this weekend at Huskie Stadium. He’ll also be wearing a red and black jersey.

But instead of being in a Huskie uniform, the 2003-2004 NIU letterman will suit up in the Kane County Eagles jersey.

The Eagles, a semi-professional team in the North American Football League, will face the McHenry County Gladiators at 7 p.m. Saturday in the first round of their regional playoff.

NIU students will be given free admission to the game with a valid NIU OneCard; general admission will cost $7.

The Eagles enter the playoffs with an undefeated 14-0 record and hope to repeat their 2003 national championship. With a win, the Eagles would move up in the regional tournament to face the winner of the Racine Raiders-Milwaukee Marauders match-up, which also takes place Saturday night.

Alan Perkins, director of player personnel for the Eagles, said if the Eagles win Saturday, the following match-up would be played at Huskie Stadium Oct. 8.

“We’re all looking forward to this,” Perkins said. “And I’m sure Marlon is, especially.”

Arney Silvestri, who lettered as a tight end for NIU in 1989, is team president and also plays linebacker for the Eagles.