Three keys for Northwestern football vs. Colorado
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Northwestern will perform its final act on the lakefront at Martin Stadium on Saturday against the Colorado Buffaloes.
Coach Prime’s team has had no shortage of drama and thrilling moments to open the 2026 season. Colorado is 2-0 after a resilient road victory over Georgia Tech and a 52-21 home win over Weber State.
The Wildcats used the bye week to clean up issues from its season-opening win over South Dakota State and prepare for its first Power Four opponent that provides them a great challenge on both sides of the ball.
This alluring matchup will draw eyes as two creative offensive minds square off. Here are three keys for NU to win what could be a tight game.
1. “Stop the run, win the game”
Colorado offensive coordinator Brennan Marion’s go-go offense is a violent rushing attack designed to confuse defenses. The scheme relies on feeding the ball to a variety of ball carriers and Colorado’s running back room is deep, led by Micah Welch. DeKalon Taylor, Damian Henderson, Jaquail Smith and Richard Young have all contributed on the ground through the first two games.
Against Georgia Tech, the Buffs ran the ball 49 times for 183 yards and controlled the time of possession. Colorado starting quarterback Julian Lewis opened up the passing game against Weber State at home, throwing for a career high of 366 yards and five total touchdowns. Through two games, Colorado has scored a touchdown 57% of the time in the red zone per SportSource Analytics.
South Dakota State rushed for 147 yards against Northwestern. Despite seven trips to the redzone, the Jackrabbits only capitalized on the opportunity once.
The Wildcats’ defense practices everyday against a tough three-headed backfield and an inventive Chip Kelly offense filled with motion and misdirection. That familiarity, combined with an extra week of preparation could benefit Northwestern.
Defensive coordinator Tim McGarigle’s formula is simple: precision tackling creates turnovers. Northwestern’s red zone defense was very impressive against South Dakota State. The Wildcats will need that same level of intensity and discipline on Saturday.
Defensive backs Robert Fitzgerald and Damon Walters were flying all over the field against South Dakota State. Fitzgerald finished with 14 tackles. Walters recorded one interception and nine tackles. Forcing Colorado to abandon its commitment to the run could bode well for the Wildcats given their talented secondary.
The team that finishes drives and limits explosive plays wins this football game.
2. Play mistake-free football
During Monday’s media availability, head coach David Braun emphasized the importance of limiting penalties that can kill drives. Avoiding self-inflicted mistakes and playing a clean game could remedy mid-game lulls and offensive rhythm issues that surfaced against South Dakota State.
The Wildcats committed 9 penalties for a total of 61 yards in their opener.
Transfer quarterback Aidan Chiles’ Northwestern debut was highlighted by a 71-yard strike to Griffin Wilde on the opening drive.
Wilde needs to have a big game to secure the W against the Buffs. The senior wideout had 880 yards receiving last season, and opened the 2026 season with three catches for 104 yards.
Chiles showed glimmers of greatness with his dual-threat ability, extending plays with his legs and displaying his arm strength while commanding the offense.
Looking at past seasons, Chiles could be considered turnover prone. Against a Colorado defense that has created pressure early this season, Chiles cannot afford to give the ball away.
3. Run, run and run
Northwestern opened the season with three talented running backs, eerily similar to Colorado.
Returning starter Caleb Komolafe carried the rock 10 times for 46 yards, while Florida State transfer Gavin Sawchuk added 69 yards on eight carries. Speedy gadget back Joseph Himon II also exploded for an 80-yard touchdown run.
The Wildcats need to establish the run early to tire out the Colorado defense.
Northwestern’s new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly had Colorado’s number in the past. Rewinding to the old Pac-12 days, Kelly’s Oregon Ducks dominated the Buffaloes, winning 45-2 in 2011 and 70-14 in 2012.
But Colorado’s defense presents a different challenge this time around.
The Buffs earned Big 12 Defensive Line of the week honors after Week 1 and had the highest-graded defensive line in the country, according to Pro Football Network. Standout transfer defensive end Lamont Lester Jr. leads the defensive stampede by recording seven tackles and four sacks through two games.
If Northwestern can put pressure on Colorado’s explosive run game, protect Chiles, and establish the run, they will be celebrating a win in style. The lake show curtain call will end with dramatic fireworks.
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