Northwestern Wildcats Football

Frequently Asked Questions

Has Northwestern football ever been good?

Has Northwestern football ever been good? Yes, Northwestern Wildcats Football has experienced periods of notable success in its long history. While the team struggled for many decades, especially during the mid-20th century, the Wildcats enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in the 1990s under head coach Gary Barnett. The 1995 season stands out as a historic high point when Northwestern won the Big Ten Championship for the first time since 1936 and earned a berth in the Rose Bowl. In more recent years, under coach Pat Fitzgerald, the Wildcats have consistently appeared in bowl games and achieved several 10-win seasons, such as in 2017 and 2020. This consistent performance against tough Big Ten competition has solidified Northwestern's reputation as a competitive program. The team's ability to develop talent and compete academically also sets it apart. So, while Northwestern football had its share of challenging seasons, its history includes periods where it has undeniably been very good and competitive at the highest level of college football.

How many NFL players went to Northwestern?

How many NFL players went to Northwestern? Northwestern University has produced a significant number of NFL players over the years, contributing notable talent to professional football. As of 2024, more than 65 Northwestern Wildcats have been drafted into the NFL, with many others signing as undrafted free agents and making active rosters. Some of the most prominent NFL alumni include Otto Graham, a Hall of Fame quarterback; Chris Hinton, a top offensive lineman; and more recent stars like Rashawn Slater and Greg Newsome II. The program's reputation for developing versatile, intelligent players has made it a respected pipeline for NFL talent. Northwestern's rigorous academics also mean that its NFL alumni are known for their leadership and adaptability both on and off the field. If you're a fan or a prospective student-athlete, Northwestern offers a proven path to the NFL while delivering a world-class education

Is Northwestern D1 or D3?

Is Northwestern D1 or D3? Northwestern Wildcats Football competes at the NCAA Division I level, specifically in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), which is the highest tier of college football in the United States. As a proud member of the Big Ten Conference, Northwestern regularly faces some of the nation's top programs, including Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State. Division I status means the Wildcats benefit from top-tier athletic facilities, nationally televised games, and the opportunity to participate in prestigious bowl games. The university's commitment to both athletic and academic excellence makes Northwestern a standout in Division I athletics, attracting student-athletes who want to challenge themselves on the field and in the classroom. For fans and recruits, this means that Northwestern offers elite competition and exposure, ensuring its place among the best football programs in the country.

Why is Northwestern called the Wildcats?

Why is Northwestern called the Wildcats? Northwestern University adopted the "Wildcats"

Has Northwestern ever been good at football?

Has Northwestern ever been good at football? Northwestern football has indeed had periods of excellence throughout its storied history. The Wildcats' most memorable era came in the mid-1990s, highlighted by the 1995 Big Ten Championship and a Rose Bowl appearance, breaking decades-long droughts and capturing national attention. In the 21st century, under head coach Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern has consistently competed at a high level, securing multiple bowl game victories and finishing ranked in the AP Top 25 several times. Notable seasons include 2017 and 2020, both marked by double-digit win totals and strong showings against ranked opponents. The team is known for its disciplined, smart play and its ability to compete with traditional powerhouses despite rigorous academic standards. While Northwestern may not have the same football pedigree as some larger schools, its history proves that it can be very good and is respected as a formidable program within the Big Ten and nationally.