Big Ten Football - 2021 Northwestern Wildcats Preview

Our Northwestern Wildcats preview 2021 observes that this football team will be strong on defense and weak on offense, as they were in 2020. Last season, the Wildcats, who topped the Big Ten West with a 6-1 mark and were 7-2 overall, averaged just 24.7 PPG (10th Big Ten, 92nd Nationally), however, on defense they allowed merely 15.9 PPG (1st Big Ten, 5th Nationally).  In postseason play, #15 Northwestern played Auburn in the Citrus Bowl, beating the Tigers 35-19. Despite major losses on both side of the ball, as three starters return on offense and four on defense, this Wildcat team will still be tough. 

Northwestern Offense

A huge question for the Wildcats concerns the quarterback spot. South Carolina transfer Ryan Hilinski and Clemson transfer Hunter Johnson are the leading prospects. Hilinski, who has a great arm, is the frontrunner.  The wideouts are inexperienced, but there is talent in this unit. Sophomore Bryce Kirtz possesses the potential to be a major contributor. 

Sophomore running back Cam Porter, a dual threat, was the team’s top ground gainer last season. Over 81 carries, he netted 333 yards and scored five times. Porter averaged 4.1 YPA. The O-line, which is led by senior center Sam Gerak, is experienced and sound. 

Northwestern Wildcats Preview 2021 - Defense

In 2020, this unit offered premium red zone defense and top-notch takeaway capabilities. At defensive end, Adetomiwa Adehawore recorded two sacks, four TFL, two PBU, and seven QBH. On the other end, Samdup Miller, who has 35 career sacks, returns after opting out last season. The linebacking unit will be without the team’s top tacklers, Paddy Fisher and Blake Gallagher. Together they recorded 170 tackles, 12 TFL, four PBU, two INTs, and four QBH. Senior Chris Bergen, who last season totaled 78 tackles, 3.5 TFL, and four PBU, anchors this group. Bryce Gallagher, Blake’s younger brother, and Peter McIntyre step up.

All-American safety Brandon Joseph is the team’s hallmark player in the secondary. Last season, he recorded six interceptions, two PBU, and 52 tackles. Sophomore corner Cameron Mitchell, who had one pick and five PBU last season, is a prime talent. Junior cornerback A.J. Hampton returns after grabbing one pick, breaking up five passes, and executing two TFL. 

Specialists

Our Northwestern Wildcats preview 2021 finds that this team has a fine kicking game. In 2020, punter Derek Adam averaged 41.8 YPP while placing 18-of-44 within the 20. Placekicker Charlie Kuhbander went 27-of-27 on extra points and nine-of12 on field goals. On returns, sophomore Coco Azema has the potential to dazzle, and sophomore Bryce Kirtz brings speed on kickoffs. 

Northwestern Wildcats Preview 2021 - Projection

Our Northwestern Wildcats preview 2021 finds that a relatively weak schedule will help this team. Their first three games are against Michigan State, Indiana State, and Duke. They also play Nebraska, Rutgers, and Perdue. All of those games are winnable. The Cats will, once again, be extremely tough on defense. There’s potential on offense at running back, while the quarterback situation is hard to specifically assess. There’s talent and experience there, but wow it will manifest itself this season is to be seen. There’s inexperience in the pass-catching ranks, leaving many question marks on offense. 

Big Ten Football - Northwestern Wildcats 2021 - Predictions:

• Third Place - Big Ten West

• Quick Lane Bowl vs. Toledo