This is an 8* SPECIAL on Western Michigan.

NIU secured the No. 1 spot in the division last week with a win over Buffalo and will play either Miami Ohio or Kent State in the MAC Championship game.

WMU is at the bottom of the MAC West at 6-5. It's eligible, but a victory here over NIU will clearly cement its place.

WMU is off a tough 21-20 road loss to EMU. QB Kaleb Eleby though leads an impressive offense that averages 30 PPG. Eleby has 2,700 passing yards, 16 TD's and five INT's.

NIU and Rocky Lombardi would love to win this game, but NIU is now more concerned in keeping all key players healthy for the Championship game. Because of that, expect to see most of the backups playing for the home side today.

And this is key for Eleby and the Broncos. They're season is on the line here, as a victory will ensure a bowl spot.

Look for Eleby to carry his team to victory and lay the points.

Play on WESTERN MICHIGAN.

Good luck, NP