Rivalry Week. Up for grabs is one of the greatest trophies in sports, the HAT.

The Illini are coming off three heartbreaking losses to Purdue, Michigan State, and Michigan. They only have a slight chance to make the Big Ten Championship.

Saying Northwestern has struggled this season is an understatement. They have not won a game in America and have been blown out by almost every opponent.

Let’s preview Northwestern before their matchup.

Season So Far

Northwestern opened their season with a victory as they came back from a 28-17 deficit to beat Nebraska in Ireland.