As the Cardinals head into this week’s matchup against the Toledo Rockets, the defense will once again be the key to victory.

The man who knotted the game up at 14 heading into the second half and earned himself Ball State’s defensive player of the game: AJ Uzodinma.

It was a fantastic performance for the junior out of New Orleans, as he set a new career high in receiving yards (108).

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.