Top Storylines Entering the Season
- The Preston Stone Gamble: The biggest offseason headline—and potential game-changer—is SMU transfer quarterback Preston Stone. With an impressive 2023 résumé (3,197 yards, 28 TDs, 6 INTs, 161.3 passer rating) and a 13–3 record as a starter, Stone brings hope to an offense that struggled badly in 2024, ranking near the bottom nationally.
- Offensive Line Rebuild: Northwestern aggressively fortified its line via the transfer portal, adding hulking tackle Xavior Gray (6-8, 340 lb) and veteran guard Zach Beernsten, alongside a deep rotation and a new assistant O-line coach. This corps must protect Stone and open holes for the stable of RBs.
- Can the Defense Hold Up?: The defensive line remains anchored by Aidan Hubbard (6 sacks in 2024) and Anto Saka, along with experienced front-seven depth. But there are serious concerns in the secondary after losing key playmakers in the back end. Safety Damon Walters returns as a leader, but he must step up in ball production.
- A Brutal Schedule Ahead: Northwestern faces one of the toughest Big Ten slates: cross-country trips to Penn State, Nebraska, USC, and road finale at Illinois, plus home games against Oregon, UCLA, Michigan, and Minnesota.
Key Players to Watch
- Preston Stone (QB, Sr.) – The linchpin of the offense; his arm and leadership could define the season.
- Aidan Hubbard (DL, Sr.) – Lead pass-rusher, vital for creating pressure up front.
- Xavior Gray (OT, Sr.) – The most high-profile O-line upgrade; protection hinges on his performance.
- Griffin Wilde (WR, Jr., South Dakota State transfer) – Vintage big-play threat; connecting with Stone will be crucial.
Game-by-Game Focus
- Week 1 @ Tulane – A winnable but tricky opener. A strong start on the road could spark belief, though early-season jitters and unfamiliar QB dynamics add risk.
- Home vs Oregon – A marquee matchup on “Big Noon Kickoff” stage. Expect a talented Ducks offense to challenge NU’s secondary. A competitive effort here would set tone, but a setback is likely.
- Midseason vs Purdue – A battle to stay out of the Big Ten basement. If the O-line is solid and Stone finds rhythm, Northwestern could pull off a critical conference win.
Prediction & Season Outlook
Analysts are cautious: Pro Football Network boldly projects eight wins as a optimistic ceiling if things fall perfectly, while RJ Young ranks NU 55th nationally and projects a season win total over/under at 3.5 games. WarrenNolan’s simulations peg the Wildcats at 3–9, with conference record of 1–8, wins over Western Illinois, ULM, and Purdue.
Want more Big 10 coverage? Here is a preview of the Big 10 season based on Vegas’ projected win totals. More Big 10 previews: Minnesota, Nebraska, Illinois and Wisconsin.
