2006 Northwestern Wildcats Football Preview

2006 Northwestern Wildcats season preview from Maddux Sports. Features an indepth look at the team, some info about the university, and the 2006 Northwestern Wildcats Football Schedule. When you go to handicap NCAA football in 2006 consider using Maddux's College football spread picks for the added edge over your bookie this year. In addition don't forget to bookmark our free live College odds feed for the upcoming season.

Coach: Pat Fitzgerald (1st year at Northwestern)
Team Name: Wildcats
2005 Overall Record: 7-5
2005 Big 10 Conference Record 5-3
Returning Starters: 13

Talk about two ends of the spectrum! Northwestern had the fourth most potent attack in the nation and the absolute worst defense, ranked 117 out of 117. The Wildcats star QB, Brett Basanez, who holds 30 school records, is gone. Who will replace him has not been determined, although sophomore C.J. Bacher seems to be the likely choice (at least for now).

The new good news is whoever the QB end up being, they will have a seasoned offensive line and the wheels of star running back Tyrell Sutton. Last season as a freshman, Sutton cranked out 1,474 yards on 250 carries, crossing the goal line 16 times. Wide receivers Shaun Herbert, Kim Thompson and Rasheed Ward all have big play potential. The offensive line has a sound foundation.

But what about Northwestern’s defense, will it be any better? Well, here’s the problem—the “D” has lost some of its most important leaders. But there’s good news too—linebackers, corners and safeties are all fundamentally secure and about half return with a full season or two of experience. Upfront, sophomore Kevin Mims looks ready to lead the linemen.

Northwestern has built a good base of players. This season will probably be one step back, but in 2007 they should be bowl bound again. Overall, the 2006 schedule is light and the Wildcats can earn 7 wins if they beat Michigan State and Miami (Ohio).

Northwestern Football Schedule

Date	Opponent	Home/Road
Aug 31	Miami Ohio	Road
Sep 9	New Hampshire	Home
Sep 16	Eastern Michigan	Home
Sep 23	Nevada	Road
Sep 30	Penn State	Road
Oct 7	Wisconsin	Road
Oct 14	Purdue	Home
Oct 21	Michigan State	Home
Oct 28	Michigan	Road
Nov 4	Iowa	Road
Nov 11	Ohio State	Home
Nov 18	Illinois	Home

 

For more info on this years 06 Northwestern football team visit the Wildcats official athletic site, or read up on their competition via all of the big 10 team previews below.