Northwestern Wildcats head coach David Braun's team secured a 34-13 victory over the Penn State Nittany Lions in the inaugural game at the new Ryan Field. The win gives the Wildcats their first win of the season and keeps them in the Big Ten Championship conversation after both teams entered the contest with one loss each.
The stadium, valued at $875 million, opened its doors exactly 100 years to the day after its predecessor debuted. Northwestern replaced a makeshift stadium on the shores of Lake Michigan with this permanent home. The Wildcats' first points at the new venue came from kicker Jackson Kleather, who made a 50-yard field goal to cap the team's opening drive.
Penn State was forced to punt on its initial possession, allowing Northwestern's offense to maintain momentum. Running back Joseph Himon II gained 47 yards on a run that moved the ball to the Penn State 4-yard line. Two plays later, quarterback Aidan Chiles rushed into the end zone for a touchdown. Northwestern dominated the opening quarter with 144 yards of total offense, 109 of which came on the ground.
Penn State forced a fumble on Northwestern's second drive and recovered to gain field position. That play set up an 8-yard rushing touchdown for Penn State running back Carson Hansen. Northwestern responded quickly on the next possession with a touchdown that stood after a flag for a block in the back was reviewed and overturned. The Wildcats added another score to take a 24-7 lead.
On Penn State's final drive of the first half, kicker Ryan Barker missed a 45-yard field goal attempt while facing Northwestern's new European soccer-style "Wildcat Wall." Northwestern finished the first half with 278 yards of total offense under Braun's direction.
The second half saw continued struggles for Penn State offensively and an inability to contain the Northwestern running game defensively. On the first play of the fourth quarter, Penn State quarterback Rocco Becht threw an interception at midfield. Although Penn State managed to score later in the game, Northwestern remained in control throughout.
The Wildcats finished with 506 yards of total offense, including 413 yards on the ground. Penn State will return home to host USC next weekend, while Northwestern will stay at Ryan Field to welcome Ball State.