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Fitzgerald's Return: Ex-Northwestern Coach Faces Alma Mater
17 Oct
Summary
- Northwestern holds a surprising 4-1 record six weeks into the 2026 season.
- Former coach Pat Fitzgerald faces his alma mater, Northwestern, with Michigan State.
- Quarterback Aidan Chiles has thrived at Northwestern after transferring from Michigan State.
Six weeks into the 2026 college football season, Northwestern has unexpectedly captured national attention with a 4-1 record and a new stadium. The Wildcats are set to face Michigan State in East Lansing on Saturday, October 17th, a game that features a reunion with former coach Pat Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald, who coached Northwestern for 17 seasons, was fired in July 2023 following hazing allegations. He joined Michigan State in December 2023, and his current team has a 2-4 record. This game also marks a reunion for Northwestern quarterback Aidan Chiles, who previously played for Michigan State before transferring.
Chiles has excelled with the Wildcats, completing 71.4% of his passes for 1,172 yards and nine touchdowns, alongside six rushing touchdowns. The game will be streamed exclusively on Peacock, with a noon ET kickoff from Spartan Stadium. Northwestern is favored by 7.5 points, with an over/under of 48.5 points.
