pretty similar, but even if you give the edge to N. Illinois. Utah will get them at home in the second game of the year for their offense. Utah will be up against our defense in the first game of the year on the road. Wouldn't you think it's more difficult for an offense to play on the road against a bitter rival in the first game of the year than it is against one at home in the second game of the year when their isn't really any hatred between the teams? Circumstances mean a lot in football games and can be a tipping point for any defense or offense for that matter