Northwestern Football: 3 takeaways from win over Nebraska in Week 10

Northwestern football defeated Nebraska 21-13 at home. This is the first time since 2000 the Wildcats are undefeated in the Big Ten three games in.

The Northwestern Wildcats improve to 3-0 with a 21-13 home win against the Nebraska Cornhuskers in Evanston this afternoon. The win marks the first time since 2000 the Wildcats are undefeated in conference play. It was the defense that won the day, shutting out the ‘Huskers three of four quarters.

It was a “bend don’t break” game for the Wildcats. Northwestern was out-gained 442-317, but the ‘Cats defense did not allow the Cornhuskers to finish drives. Nebraska led 13-7 at halftime after taking advantage of some Northwestern turnovers. The Cornhuskers, however, did not score again in the game.

Scott Frost and the Cornhuskers used two quarterbacks in this game. Both Adrian Martinez and Dylan McCaffery saw significant time in this game. It was the running game; however, that was most effective for the Cornhuskers. Nebraska ran for 224 yards and 5.2 yards per carry.

The Wildcats jumped out to an early 7-0 lead. Nebraska scored on two Peyton Ramsey interceptions. The Wildcats came out of the locker room and scored, giving Northwestern the go-ahead 14-13 lead. The touchdown proved to be the difference in the game as Nebraska did not score in the second half.

Nebraska had two interceptions and two punts in the second half. Quarterback Luke McCaffery drove the Cornhuskers down the field late in the game but missed Wan’Dale Robinson in the end zone on fourth down late in the fourth quarter. Both Northwestern and Nebraska had two turnovers, but Nebraska’s turnovers seemed more costly.

While Northwestern remains undefeated, Nebraska still seeks their first win. Here are three takeaways from Saturday’s game.