Let's take a look at the critical matchups that will decide the Stanford-Northwestern game.
1. A new Northwestern quarterback gets to pick on a new Stanford secondary
Whoever wins the battle between Clayton Thorson and the relatively green Stanford secondary will probably decide the difference between tight contest or Stanford rout. The Cardinal are relatively strong in the front seven, but if the Wildcats offensive line can hold their battles, Northwestern can capitalize.
Ronnie Harris must figure out how to get his defensive backs in order. Thorson is the best quarterback Northwestern has had in quite some time, and if he's ready to go he could be a huge trouble spot for the Cardinal.