Rapid Reaction: Northwestern football opens New Ryan Field with an emphatic 34-13 shellacking of Penn State

Evanston, Illinois - October 2nd, 2026 - The Northwestern Wildcats made a solid first impression at their new Ryan Field with a commanding 34-13 victory over the Penn State Nittany Lions. The atmosphere at the new stadium was electric as the 'Cats came out to play. Penn State, who won the coin toss and deferred to the second half, were seeking a measure of respect.

The Wildcats' dominant performance began with Aidan Chiles' efficient 93 yards on 10-of-14 passing, as running the ball proved to be the key to victory. Caleb Komolafe led the charge with 188 rushing yards and a touchdown, complemented by Joe Himon II's 162 yards and two scores, and Gavin Sawchuk's 27-yard touchdown run. Northwestern's kicker, Jackson Kleather, added to the points with two successful field goals and four extra points.

The Lions' offense struggled, with veteran signal caller Rocco Becht going 26-of-41 for one touchdown and two interceptions. Senior wideout Chase Sowell contributed 68 receiving yards on five targets, while James Peoples led the Nittany Lions rushing attack with 13 yards on eight carries and scored a touchdown. The game began with a Northwestern first drive that capitalized on a fair catch and a 50-yard field goal by Kleather, giving the 'Cats a 3-0 lead.

Penn State's Rocco Becht quickly answered with a 26-yard touchdown to Chase Sowell, but the 'Cats answered back with a touchdown drive capped by Chiles' rushing TD. The second half saw Northwestern hold firm, with Himon continuing his explosive performance, scoring two more touchdowns, and sealing the victory.