The Northern Iowa Panthers face a big challenge in the Gateway Conferencethis weekend when they visit pre-season favorite Illinois State. ThePanthers opened the league race with a 34-14 victory over Southern Illinois.U-N-I coach Mike Dunbar says the Illinois State defense is experienced andbig up front.The Panther defense has been outstanding but Dunbar says they face theirtoughest challenge to date against the Redbirds.Dunbar says it is too early to call this a deciding game in the league race.