It didn’t take long for NIU quarterback Josh Haldi to adjust to starting again for the Huskies.

After NIU safety Ray Smith recovered an Akron fumble on the second play of the game, Haldi connected with Dan Sheldon for a 23-yard touchdown pass on his first play of NIU’s 49-19 win over the Zips.

The Huskies’ time of possession during the one-pass drive was four seconds.

“You couldn’t have scripted it any better,” Haldi said. “We knew we wanted to go in and attack right away, but obviously it was nice to get going and get on the right foot.”

Haldi spent the Huskies’ first four games watching from the sidelines while recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot. The 6-foot-2 senior played only the first offensive drive in NIU’s season-opening loss to Maryland.

The third-year quarterback threw 14-of-22 passes for three touchdowns and 191 yards before leaving the game early in the third quarter after NIU held a 49-12 lead.

“He looked so much better than he did two years ago,” coach Joe Novak said. “There were times when I’d shake my head after practice. He’s really, really improved. He’s throwing the ball better than he’s ever been. He’s our leader, and just having him in the huddle is so much for our football team.”

Haldi connected with senior receiver Dan Sheldon for two touchdowns in the first half.

“Josh has really developed himself and makes some great decisions out there,” Sheldon said. “He has a stronger arm, so it allows us to do more things on offense.”

Haldi passed Chris Finlen to become second on NIU’s career touchdown list. Haldi’s three touchdowns put him at 43 in his career, just short of George Bork’s 60.

Haldi said his foot didn’t affect him during the game and thought passing provided the Huskies with more options.

“Anytime we’re able to both throw and run effectively and early, it opens up a lot of lanes,” Haldi said. “The offensive line opens up a lot of lanes. If the other team wants to stop the throw, we run, and if they want to stop the run, we pass.”