UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, Northwestern’s football team suffered a heartbreaking loss to No. 18 Michigan, falling 24-22 at Wrigley Field on November 15, 2025. The Wildcats, who led late in the fourth quarter, came agonizingly close to pulling off an upset against the ranked Wolverines.
With just seconds remaining, Michigan’s ability to capitalize under pressure proved decisive. After a fierce fourth quarter, Northwestern briefly took a 22-21 lead, but Michigan drove down the field to set up an easy kick for kicker Dominic Zvada, who secured the victory with a final field goal.
Northwestern’s defense shone brightly throughout the game, limiting Michigan’s potent rushing attack and forcing five turnovers, including a critical interception by Braden Turner. This defensive effort showcased the Wildcats’ resilience, but ultimately, they fell short when it mattered most.
The game featured a standout performance by Northwestern’s star pass rusher Anto Saka, who delivered a highlight-reel play that resulted in a fumble recovery. Northwestern’s defense bent but did not break, holding Michigan to just 21 points until the final minutes.
Despite their struggles, Northwestern managed to keep the game competitive. The Wildcats scored field goals on three separate drives into the red zone before finally reaching the end zone with a quarterback sneak. The crowd at Wrigley Field, predominantly filled with Michigan fans, fell silent as Northwestern pulled ahead late in the game.
The Wolverines, led by true freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, initially struggled but found their rhythm, finishing the game with 280 passing yards. Underwood’s accuracy was notable, starting the game with ten consecutive completions, a record for Michigan quarterbacks since JJ McCarthy in 2023.
This nearly upended victory for Northwestern marks a critical point in their season. The Wildcats demonstrated they have the capability to challenge higher-ranked teams, but the inability to maintain momentum in the final moments highlights areas for improvement. Fans are left wondering what this means for the team’s future as they continue their season.
As the dust settles on this thrilling match, both teams will look ahead. Northwestern must regroup quickly, while Michigan aims to build on this narrow escape. Stay tuned for further updates as both teams prepare for their upcoming challenges.
