Wayne State hosts Northern Michigan at noon Saturday in its next-to-last home game, with two top-15 opponents waiting after the Wildcats. Northern Michigan brings a productive running back in Noah Dobert, who ran for 406 yards and four long touchdowns against the Warriors last season. Wayne State’s season has been marked by injuries and frequent quarterback changes, while its defense has generated takeaways and its rushing attack has improved in recent games.

By the Numbers
  • Wayne State’s 2026 schedule ranks seventh toughest among 160 NCAA teams when future opponents are included (.608 strength-of-schedule rating).
  • Northern Michigan leads the all-time series 21-17; Wayne State is 10-8 against the Wildcats at Adams Field.
  • Dobert has rushed for 904 yards and five touchdowns this season.
  • Wayne State has used five starting quarterbacks in eight games.
Yes, But

Wayne State has made progress on the ground, but injuries to leading backs D’Vaun Bentley and Gary Jefferson Jr. sidelined both at Davenport. Northern Michigan also won last season’s meeting 45-11 and holds the series edge.

State of Play
  • Saturday’s game is Wayne State’s next-to-last home contest of the season.
  • The Warriors forced four turnovers at Davenport; linebacker Luke Johnson’s four forced fumbles are tied for the NCAA Division II lead.
  • After rushing for 160 yards in its first three games combined, Wayne State has gained 636 yards on the ground over its last four.
What’s Next

After Northern Michigan, Wayne State hosts No. 1 Ferris State on Nov. 7, then visits No. 15 Michigan Tech on Nov. 14 to close the regular season.

Bottom Line

Wayne State needs to contain Dobert and make the most of its takeaways as it faces a pivotal home game before a demanding finish against two top-15 teams.