Northwestern Football: Will Wildcats secure another Big Ten West title?

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 17: Trey Pugh #80 of the Northwestern Wildcats congratulates teammate Isaiah Bowser #25 on scoring a touchdown against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first quarter of the game at TCFBank Stadium on November 17, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Northwestern defeated Minnesota 24-14. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 17: Trey Pugh #80 of the Northwestern Wildcats congratulates teammate Isaiah Bowser #25 on scoring a touchdown against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first quarter of the game at TCFBank Stadium on November 17, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Northwestern defeated Minnesota 24-14. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
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What’s the ceiling for Northwestern football in 2019? Can they finally win a Big Ten championship after playing for one last season?

The Northwestern Wildcats played for a Big Ten championship last season, losing to the Ohio State Buckeyes in a game that was competitive for two and a half quarters.

Did the Wildcats over achieved last season, or are they legitimate contenders in the Big Ten? Even if they are able to get out of the West division, can they beat Ohio State or Michigan and contend for a playoff berth?

The powers that be in Evanston must think they can contend on a national stage since they invested 260 million dollars in their beachfront practice facility to join in the Power Five arms race.

What will this season hold for the Wildcats? Will they repeat as Big Ten West champs and play for a conference title? Here’s a preview of their offense, defense and a prediction of their final record.