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Northwestern Transfers Seek to Revive Struggling Football Program
7 Aug
Summary
- Wildcats coming off 4-win season, 2-7 in Big Ten
- Added multiple offensive transfers, including QB Preston Stone
- Ranked 16th out of 18 Big Ten teams in preseason power rankings

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Northwestern Wildcats are facing low expectations after a disappointing 4-win campaign in 2024. The team's 2-7 record in the Big Ten conference has left them with much to prove.
In an attempt to turn things around, head coach David Braun has been active in the transfer portal, bringing in several new offensive players. The biggest addition is quarterback Preston Stone, who joins the Wildcats after a successful career at SMU. Northwestern also added wide receiver Griffin Wilde from South Dakota State and bolstered their offensive line.
Despite these roster improvements, the Wildcats are still projected to struggle in the upcoming season. ESPN's latest Big Ten power rankings have them ranked 16th out of 18 teams, ahead of only Maryland and Purdue. The publication notes that while the Wildcats face a challenging schedule, including a tough opener against Tulane, "bowl eligibility should be within sight."
The Wildcats' quest for redemption will begin on August 30th when they take on Tulane. A win in that matchup would go a long way in helping the team secure a coveted bowl game appearance, something they've achieved just once in the last four years. However, with several other difficult Big Ten opponents on the schedule, the Wildcats will need to find a way to pull off some unexpected victories if they hope to return to the postseason.