Northern Illinois coach Rob Harley has yet to name a starting quarterback. Western Carolina transfer Taron Dickens is one of three candidates vying for the job.
Harley says defending Iowa begins with the run game.
Harley says the Hawkeyes will offer a physical challenge.
Harley was named the interim head coach back in February after former NIU coach Thomas Hammock left to join the coaching staff of the Seattle Seahawks.
