After one of the wildest endings to a football game you’ll ever see, Ball State (5-1) is headed to Detroit to take on Jaret Patterson and the No. 23 Buffalo Bulls (5-0).

Ball State’s motto this year has been Detroit or Bust, and with the season’s aspirations on the line, Justin Hall delivered the best performance of his storied collegiate career.

The Bronze Stalk Trophy was on the line, as well as an opportunity for the winner of this game to cement its place as a real contender in the MAC West.

This is the week where Ball State can run away with a game, but with MAC football, you never know. Here are four keys to a Cardinal and White win.

Last week’s win over the Eagles proved what many people thought already about this Ball State team — the offense is prolific.

With the rebuilding, Plitt could have the ability to find more time in the pocket which will allow Davis to break the coverage of the youthful secondary.

While running back Caleb Huntley will certainly do Caleb Huntley things, watch for the passing game to thrive against Northern Illinois and its freshman duo of defensive ends and safeties.

Here’s what to watch for on Wednesday night with the Bronze Stalk trophy on the line.