Even though Friday night’s game against the University of Maryland ended in a loss, Northern Illinois University is confidently blazing ahead.

The Big Ten, Power 4 Terrapins were coming off a massive 39-7 win over Florida Atlantic University, and seemed to believe they could coast through a game against NIU.

“I’m proud of the way the guys played,” NIU coach Thomas Hammock said after the 20-9 loss. “I’m proud of the way they competed for four quarters against a Big Ten opponent with a lot more resources, and we showed we have a lot of heart.”

But, the Huskies were able to catch Maryland in vulnerable positions — landing them a 74-yard touchdown by running back Telly Johnson Jr.

“We’ve really just been going through the game plan all week,” said Johnson Jr.

His teammate and linebacker F

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