Northern Illinois defeats Ball State 59-21

MUNCIE, Ind. — Chad Spann rushed for three touchdowns and Northern Illinois clinched at least share of the Mid-American West Division title and a berth in the conference championship game with a 59-21 victory over Ball State on Saturday.

Chandler Harnish threw for 247 yards and two TDs, both to Nathan Palmer, and the Huskies (9-2, 7-0) won their eighth straight, their longest streak since 1965.

Eric Williams scored two rushing touchdowns for the Cardinals (4-8, 3-5), who were held to 268 total yards in their season finale. Kelly Page threw a career-long 80-yard touchdown pass to Jack Tomlinson.

Jimmie Ward returned a blocked punt 15 yards for a TD, and Tyrone Clark scored on a 16-yard interception return for Northern Illinois.

The Huskies can win the division title outright next week with either a victory over Eastern Michigan or a loss by Toledo.