Kunes Car Convos: NIU Football

At Kunes Auto Group, we love bringing together two of our favorite things: cars and conversations. In this episode of Kunes Car Convos, we sat down with three standout NIU Football players—Gelani, Jake, and Jacob Finley—to talk sports, dream cars, music, and what it really means to be a Huskie.

 

From their favorite pre-game songs to their dream rides in the showroom, these guys gave us a glimpse into life on and off the field. Let’s dive in.

We started things off with a fun question: if you weren’t playing football, what sport would you be playing?

 

• Gelani didn’t hesitate—basketball was his first love, though he admitted he wasn’t quite tall enough for the college level.
• Jake split the difference between basketball and golf. While he’s not ready for the PGA Tour just yet, he loves the challenge of improving his game.
• Jacob Finley threw us a curveball: soccer. He played in high school and says if you give him a through ball, he’ll find the back of the net every time.

Of course, no Kunes Car Convo would be complete without asking about driving habits.

 

• Gelani admitted he didn’t get his license until he was 18, but now calls himself a solid driver.
• Jake keeps it safe—no accidents—but says he might nudge the speedometer past the limit from time to time.
• Jacob proudly declared himself a “great driver,” though he confessed to sneaking his mom’s car out for short spins at age 14. (Don’t worry, mom—he turned out fine!)

When asked about the best part of being on the team, the answers all came back to one theme: brotherhood.

 

• Gelani praised the close-knit bond between players on offense, defense, and special teams.
• Jake talked about the coaches and teammates who genuinely care and push each other to be their best.
• Jacob summed it up perfectly: “These are my brothers. Without them, I wouldn’t be here.”

Music fuels athletes, and these Huskies had their go-to artists ready:

 

• Gelani: Gunna—his new album is on repeat.
• Jake: Creed—because sometimes you just need a little ‘90s rock to get hyped.
• Jacob: Lil Baby—his favorite for getting in the zone.

And when it comes to carpool karaoke? Jacob surprised everyone by singing a little Aaliyah, while the group couldn’t resist joining in on a Taylor Swift chorus.

Living situations can make or break a season, and these guys had plenty to say:

 

• Gelani lives with his girlfriend and says it’s “a great situation.”
• Jacob rooms with wide receiver Gary Given—clean, easygoing, and even knows his way around the kitchen.
• Jake lives with quarterback Brady Davidson and Justin Lynch, who he calls “good roommates that do it all.”

We couldn’t wrap things up without talking dream cars—especially surrounded by some of the best rides in the Kunes showroom.

 

• Gelani has his sights set on a BMW X6 in the next 10 years.
• Jake was drawn to the sleek style of Mercedes-Benz models.
• Jacob? A big-truck guy through and through, his dream ride is a Cadillac Escalade on 26s.

To close things out, the players broke into the Huskie Fight Song, filling the car with pride and energy.

 

At Kunes Auto Group, we’re proud to be the official auto group of NIU Athletics. Whether you’re looking for a sleek BMW, a bold Cadillac, or just a reliable daily driver, you’ll find it here—with great prices, a family atmosphere, and a faith-based foundation.

 

Come see us at Kunes Auto Group in Sycamore, and let’s find the ride that’s right for you.