Way too early 2021 Big Ten power rankings | Where does Penn State Football stand?

Northwestern bounced back in a big way in 2021, finishing 6-1 and making it to the Big Ten championship game for the second time in three seasons, falling in a closer then expected game to Ohio State.

Head coach Pat Fitzgerald just signed a long term extension to stay put at Northwestern, however will have to replace quarterback Peyton Ramsey who was very solid last season, throwing for over 1,700 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Defensively, the Wildcats are always fundamentally sound under Fitzgerald but were exceptional last season allowing only 14.5 points per game. They will lose their heart and soul, middle linebacker Paddy Fisher to the NFL though however.

Expect a minor regression to the mean for Northwestern in 2021, as they own four games by 10 points or fewer this past season and had one of the best turnover margins in college football, turning over opponents 19 times in 9 games played.

In a weak Big Ten West though, Northwestern could still be poised to make a run to Indianaoplis once again.