Northwestern defeats South Dakota State 34-18 in season opener

Northwestern Wildcats South Dakota State Jackrabbits college football Aidan Chiles Chip Kelly

Northwestern defeated South Dakota State 34-18 in their season opener at Martin Stadium. The victory featured the debut of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and transfer quarterback Aidan Chiles, who recorded 273 passing yards and two total touchdowns.

While the Northwestern offense amassed 497 total yards, the defense played a critical role by limiting the Jackrabbits to just one touchdown despite seven trips into the red zone. Key defensive performances included Robert Fitzgerald with 14 tackles and an interception by Damon Walters.

Northwestern secured the win with late scoring drives, including an 80-yard touchdown run by Joseph Himon II. South Dakota State, led by quarterback Chase Mason, struggled to convert red zone opportunities into touchdowns, settling for field goals in several instances.

Entities

Aidan Chiles · Chip Kelly · South Dakota State Jackrabbits

Sources

Northwestern Takes Down South Dakota State 34-18 in Season Opener [nusports.com]

17 days ago

SDSU rues red zone struggles in loss at Northwestern [www.brookingsregister.com]

17 days ago

No. 24 Northwestern Wins Top-25 Battle Over No. 7 Morningside [victorysportsnetwork.com]

17 days ago

Rapid Recap: Northwestern 34, South Dakota State 18 [dailynorthwestern.com]

17 days ago

Jacks stumble against Northwestern - The Collegian [sdsucollegian.com]

17 days ago

Northwestern's defense bends but doesnt break in season-opening win [chicago.suntimes.com]

17 days ago