|
|
| ESPN Network: ESPN | NBA.com | NHL.com | ABC | Radio | EXPN | Insider | Shop | Fantasy |
 |  |
 |
Updated: August 18, 5:43 PM ET Tough road ahead for Northwestern By Herb Gould Special to ESPN.com |
||||||||||
|
Northwestern Wildcats
|
| 
Coach: Randy Walker (18-28, 5th season) 2002 overall record: 3-9 Conference record: 1-7 Returning starters Offense: 8, Defense: 9, Kicker/Punter: 1 2002 statistical leaders (* - returners) Rushing: Jason Wright* (1,234 yds) Passing: Brett Basanez* (2,204 yds) Receiving: Jon Schweighardt (719 yds) Tackles: Doug Szymul* (106) Sacks: 4 players tied (1 each) Interceptions: Raheem Covington (4) Outlook: Despite the seven-year deal that he signed after guiding NU to an 8-4 record and a share of the 2000 Big Ten title, Walker shapes up as a coach on the hot seat. Two losing seasons, a new athletic director and the ominous cloud that still hangs over the program as a result of Rashidi Wheeler's death during an informal practice have left the Wildcats with lingering problems. On the field, Northwestern has reasons for optimism offensively. Senior running back Jason Wright was second in the nation in all-purpose yards and sophomore quarterback Brett Basanez was a close second to Iowa's Brad Banks in total offense. Defense is another story. The return of middle linebacker Pat Durr, who missed virtually all of last season with a knee injury, should help. But the Cats, who finished 113th among 117 teams in the nation by allowing 41.1 points a game, have a long way to go, even if they are improved on defense. NU doesn't figure to lose again by the lopsided scores such as a 52-3 meltdown at Air Force and a 49-0 pounding at Penn State. But in the rugged Big Ten, victories are still likely to be few and far between. Keep an eye on: RB Jason Wright. He flew under the radar last year while Northwestern was struggling. But he's poised for another big year. Key game: At Indiana on Oct. 11. The Wildcats will have a chance to snatch some non-conference victories. But this shapes up as their best chance against league rivals, and they'll need some positive reinforcement for a difficult second half. It's a good year if. . . : Northwestern can show some signs of progress. The Wildcats, who have won a share of three conference championships in the last eight years, seem to be heading in the wrong direction these days. Herb Gould covers the Big Ten for the Chicago Sun-Times.
| ||||||||
|
|
