News Summary
In a tense matchup, the Northwestern Wildcats defeated the UCLA Bruins 17-14, improving their season record to 2-2. Despite a strong start, concerns remain about Northwestern’s bowl eligibility as they need four more wins. Key performances came from Caleb Komolafe and Joseph Himon II in the running game, while quarterback Preston Stone helped maintain ball control. Northwestern’s defense showed early strength but struggled to finish the game, raising questions for upcoming opponents. As they prepare to face Louisiana Monroe, consistency will be crucial for the Wildcats’ postseason aspirations.
Evansville, IN – The Northwestern Wildcats secured a narrow 17-14 victory over the UCLA Bruins, improving their season record to 2-2 and conference record to 1-1 in the Big Ten. The Wildcats, however, face looming questions regarding their ability to achieve bowl eligibility, as they require four more wins for a postseason berth.
Despite building a commanding 17-point lead, Northwestern’s defense faltered in the latter part of the game, allowing UCLA to mount a comeback. Head coach David Braun addressed his team’s struggles with maintaining leads, emphasizing the importance of finishing games effectively. While the win against UCLA, who is still in search of their first victory this season, adds a conference win to Northwestern’s record, it does not guarantee their place in a bowl game.
The game highlighted the effectiveness of Northwestern’s running game, with Caleb Komolafe and Joseph Himon II combining for a formidable total of 181 rushing yards. Komolafe was particularly noteworthy, carrying the ball 27 times for 123 yards and scoring one touchdown. Their ground game proved impactful, especially in the first half, where they executed numerous runs gaining five or more yards consistently.
Northwestern’s offensive line played a crucial role in supporting the running backs by creating favorable blocking conditions. This commitment to the ground game became evident as the Wildcats outpaced the Bruins in rushing attempts, running the ball 42 times to UCLA’s 29.
The defense started strong, forcing two punts and a turnover in the first half. However, the second half saw a decline in performance as Northwestern allowed four consecutive plays resulting in 10 or more yards during the fourth quarter, which ultimately contributed to UCLA’s touchdown. Nevertheless, the Wildcats limited UCLA to just 14 points overall, with standout performances from players like Ore Adeyi, who successfully registered two key pass breakups.
Quarterback Preston Stone played a pivotal role in maintaining ball possession, completing 12 of 18 passes for 115 yards and one touchdown without throwing any interceptions. Junior wide receiver Griffin Wilde had his strongest outing yet for Northwestern, amassing seven receptions for 98 yards and one touchdown.
As their next challenge, the Wildcats will face Louisiana Monroe, marking the start of a four-game home stretch. This upcoming stretch is critical for Northwestern as they aim to improve upon their disappointing 4-8 record from the previous season and to avoid handing UCLA their first win after the Bruins recently dismissed their head coach following a challenging start to the season.
UCLA’s quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, concluded the game with 180 passing yards and was notable for his contribution on the ground, leading the team with 65 rushing yards. The Bruins continue to struggle this season, falling to a record of 0-4, and their performance against Northwestern raises further questions about the team’s prospects moving forward.
Both teams will need to address their areas of concern as the season progresses, with Northwestern focusing on consistency and finishing strong to achieve their goal of bowl eligibility.
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HERE Resources
Northwestern Wildcats Triumph Over UCLA Bruins in Close Match
Mick Cronin’s Future at UCLA in Question Amid Villanova Opening
Additional Resources
- Fox 32 Chicago
- Wikipedia: Northwestern Wildcats football
- Sports Illustrated
- Google Search: Northwestern Wildcats football
- Go Ducks
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Northwestern Wildcats
- ABC 7 Chicago
- Google News: Northwestern Football
- Inside NU
- Oregon Live
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
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