2013 Orange Bowl: NIU's Martel Moore wants physical match-up against Florida St.

Facing one of the most dominant defensive units in the nation, Northern Illinois Huskies wide receiver Martel Moore hopes that referees will allow physical play to go whistle-free, as he tells Fred Mitchell of the Chicago Tribune. In the previously linked video, Moore says that he welcomes the challenge that Florida State should provide.

"I want it to be a physical game. I mean, I know they're going to come up and press, and that's something I like," Moore said. "I know they're going to try to put their hands on me, so it's going to be something that I take as a challenge."

While the Huskies boast one of the most prolific offensive units in the country, led by dual-threat quarterback Jordan Lynch and a group of playmakers headed by Moore, the Seminoles have proven capable of stifling quality offenses in the past.

Entering the game, Florida State has the sixth-best scoring defense in the nation, allowing a paltry 15.1 points per game. Only the Alabama Crimson Tide allow fewer yards per game, and no team in the entire nation allows fewer yards per play from scrimmage.

Still, Moore's confidence is understandable given how well Northern Illinois has played this season. The wide receiver wonders aloud in the video whether he might be underestimated by Seminole defensive backs given NIU's non-BCS status, but he seems to view that as an opportunity.

Through 13 games this season, Moore has caught 71 passes for 1,054 yards and 12 touchdowns, all tops on the team.