Nov. 17--Northwestern now has victories over Wisconsin and Notre Dame and losses to Cal, NIU and Michigan. Go figure. Here's a review of the loco 43-40 overtime win over the Irish.
Offense: B
What a mixed bag. Trevor Siemian completed 30 of 48 passes and made great reads on a 16-yard rush and 6-yard TD scamper. The line was sound, and Justin Jackson was sensational. But a half-dozen drops, combined with fumbles by Jackson and brothers Cameron and Garrett Dickerson, could have been lethal.
Defense: B-
The Irish churned out a gaudy 6.2 yards per play, but the Wildcats had four takeaways, including Anthony Walker's pick-and-run of 65 yards. Deonte Gibson pressured Everett Golson twice.
Special teams: A-
Outfielder Jack Mitchell went from singles hitter to Home Run Derby champ by blasting kicks from 31, 46, 45 and 41 yards. Chris Gradone tagged his one punt (47 yards). Nick VanHoose scored two points after blocking a PAT.
Coaching: A-
Fitzgerald's intensity hit a new high last week, reflected in the effort of his players. And he showed great faith in Mitchell, who hadn't made a kick longer than 29 yards until Saturday.
