Northwestern hosts South Dakota State for the Wildcats’ season opener

Northwestern University hosted South Dakota State University for the Wildcats' inaugural season opener on Saturday night at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. The game featured strong performances from both teams, with South Dakota State aiming to kick off their campaign with a powerful display.

Offensively, South Dakota State averaged 628 yards per game, placing them second in the FCS. Defensively, they allowed 265 yards per game, ranking 25th in the conference. Their scoring defense was particularly notable, allowing only 7 points per game, which tied them for 10th in the nation.

On the other side of the ball, Northwestern's offense averaged 346.1 yards per game, which ranked 96th in the FBS. Defensively, they permitted 19.8 points per game, tying them for 23rd in the conference. Key contributors included Chase Mason, who threw for 157 yards and a touchdown, and James Basinger, who rushed for 110 yards and a touchdown.

Receiving highlights came from Landon Dulaney, who caught 89 yards on two receptions, and Griffin Wilde, who amassed 880 yards on 71 catches, with 8 touchdowns. South Dakota State's season began with a dominant 70-7 victory over Stetson on August 29, while Northwestern concluded their season with a 34-7 win over Central Michigan in the GameAbove Sports Bowl on December 26. The Wildcats will next take on New Haven on September 12.