Northwestern Football: Clayton Thorson boosts draft stock in Holiday Bowl Comeback

3. Northwestern’s second half adjustments were on point

From the offense to the defense, Pat Fitzgerald had these boys in a different mindset going into the second half.

The Wildcats gave up 4.4 yards to the Utes on the ground in the first half. Utah’s rushing offense is ranked 50th nationally but the Utes have to run the ball to open up their offense. Jason Shelley’s mobility as a quarterback is really what kept Utah offense moving and grooving through the first half. Northwestern’s offense had eight shots to score in the first half with three of those ending with three-and-outs and two ending in turnovers.

The second half was a completely different story. The Wildcats scored a touchdown on two plays on their opening drive and forced a fumble resulting in an 86-yard touchdown. Clayton Thorson hit Trey Klock for the go-ahead score and Riley Lees put the nail in the coffin with an eight-yard scamper. The defense allowed the Utes 2.2 yards per carry in the second half and any Utah drive that didn’t end in a three-and-out ended with a turnover.

Although the Wildcats didn’t score in the fourth quarter, their third-quarter dominance was enough to keep them out front for the final 15 minutes. Northwestern’s moxie was on display in almost every game this season and this comeback win will bookend an incredible career for Clayton Thorson.