Northern Iowa coach Mark Farley says a focus during their bye week was a young defense. The Panthers are 1-2 and open the Missouri Valley Football race at home on Saturday against 19th ranked Youngstown State.

The Panthers are coming off a 41-14 win at Idaho State.

Farley says that defense will be tested by a Youngstown State team that is 2-1. The Penguins’ only loss was at Ohio State.

The Youngstown State offense is averaging more than 35 points and just over 433 yards per game.

Farley hopes the home field is an advantage on Saturday.