NIU starting running back Garrett Wolfe is tied for the national lead with 18 touchdowns this season. The former backup burst onto the scene when he stepped in for A.J. Harris in the second half Sept. 24 against Bowling Green and rushed for 204 yards.

On Tuesday, Wolfe was missing from the biggest game of the season and left many wondering why.

Wednesday, he talked with the Northern Star about his absence and the extent of the injury that forced him to miss the game.

Northern Star: What happened and what is the extent of the injury?

Garrett Wolfe: I was just poked in the eye – nothing more, nothing less. I didn’t play for precautionary reasons. With being a running back, you take a lot of hits and a lot of chances to get that eye poked again.

NS: How is the eye? Is it swollen or anything like that?

GW: It’s fine right now. Actually, if you saw me, you would be like: ‘Why didn’t you play again?’

NS: With the extent of the injury not being too severe, the question comes up: Did you not play because of injury or because of suspension?

GW: I was not suspended at all. Like I said, it was precautionary for my eye and my future.

NS: Have you talked to coach [Joe] Novak yet and if so, what was that about?

GW: Yeah, we just talked [Wednesday] about the team and he wanted to make sure I was all right.

NS: What are the chances you’re going to play against Eastern Michigan?

GW: I go back to the doctor Thursday and Friday and I’ll know by then. If I had to guess, I’d probably say about 65-75 percent right now.

NS: Were you at the game just watching?

GW: No, I wasn’t even there because of doctor’s orders.

NS: What was it like to not only not play, but to not even be in the stadium?

GW: It was very devastating. When I found out, it brought me to tears. To not play and then not even be there hurt me a lot.

NS: How do you think A.J. [Harris] did in your absence?

GW: He ran very effectively and I knew he would play very well. It was unfortunate that we couldn’t get him the ball more.

NS: What are you going to be doing for the Bowling Green-Toledo game Nov. 23?

GW: I actually thought about giving a couple of the players a call if I can get their numbers to cheer them on. That would be great for us if they could help us out and beat Toledo.