Wildcats Seek Land of Lincoln Trophy in Season Finale vs. Illinois
Northwestern prepares to host Illinois in the annual Showdown for the coveted Land of Lincoln Trophy at Wrigley Field. This matchup marks the 118th meeting between the programs, with Illinois leading the all-time series 57-55-5. Northwestern has dominated recently, winning seven of the last nine (and nine of the last 12) contests.
Since 2009, when the Land of Lincoln Trophy was established, Northwestern boasts a 10-4 series record.
How to Follow the Action
Fans can catch all the action this Saturday. Here’s where to tune in:
**Watch:** The game will be broadcast on BTN with Chris Vosters on the call (play-by-play), Matt Millen providing expert analysis, and Kylen Mills reporting from the sidelines.
Direct Link to Watch Online (Sign-In with TV Provider)
**Listen:** Tune into the Northwest Football Radio Network with the voice of the Wildcats, Dave Eanet for his 35th season with Ted Albrecht calling the game in his 31st year. Lauren Withrow will bring you the latest from the sideline.
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**twitter:**
Follow live updates on@NUFBFamily:
Five Storylines to Watch For
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Last Season’s Thriller: A year ago, Northwestern snatched the Land of Lincoln Trophy back from Illinois in an unforgettable 45-43 win. The game stands as the highest-scoring contest in the 117-year history of the rivalry. The Wildcats had six different players find the endzone including three scores by Ben BryantSea. The decisive play came on a pivotal fourth-quarter fumble forced by Braydon Brus and recovered/returned joining the endzone. afterIllinois tied the game with under a minute remaining, the Wildcats held strong, making a key two-point stop to seal the
- Elite Performances From Anthrific: Northwestern’s defensive unit is anchored by. linebacker Xander Mueller, The team captain returned last week against Michigan after Earlier this season Mueller recorded an interception (first of season, sixth of Delhi . Mueller needed for nine total tackles to go along with Mueller. He is the first Wildcat defending sparks and turnover frenzy.
- Ohio touchdowns (two by rushing, one
’s Bradshaw Elevation: SophomoreDefensive lineman Anto Saka has emerged as one of the imposing rushers.
Saka already has posted 2.5 sacks this “ on’s 15.8) among “ power five players as per pass rush snaps.
- The any assist leader for receiving yards (second
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Let me know if you want me to complete the list.
What is the historical context of the rivalry between Northwestern and Illinois, including the overall series record and the recent dominance of Northwestern?
## Wildcats Eye Land of Lincoln Trophy in Season Finale Showdown
**(Interviewer):** Welcome back to the show, and joining us today is [Alex Reed Name], sports analyst and die-hard Wildcats fan. [Alex Reed Name], Northwestern is gearing up for a big rivalry game this Saturday against Illinois for the Land of Lincoln Trophy. What are your thoughts on this matchup?
**(Alex Reed):** This is always a thrilling game, a true clash of titans! While Illinois leads the all-time series, Northwestern has had the upper hand recently, especially since the Land of Lincoln Trophy was introduced back in 2009. [[1](https://sports.yahoo.com/illinois-vs-northwestern-score-updates-140120964.html)]It’s going to be a battle, but I have confidence in the Wildcats to bring that trophy back home.
**(Interviewer):** Northwestern has definitely owned this rivalry lately. What do you think has been the key to their success against Illinois?
**(Alex Reed):** I think a big part of it is their resilience and determination. They always seem to find a way to step up in big moments against Illinois. Plus, Coach [Insert Coach Name] has done a fantastic job instilling a winning mentality in the team.
**(Interviewer):** Fans are certainly excited for this game, and there are plenty of ways to catch the action. Can you give us a rundown of how people can tune in on Saturday?
**(Alex Reed):** Absolutely! The game will be broadcast on Big Ten Network, with Chris Vosters on play-by-play, Matt Millen providing analysis, and Kylen Mills reporting from the sidelines. [[1](https://sports.yahoo.com/illinois-vs-northwestern-score-updates-140120964.html)]You can also listen to the game on the Northwestern Football Radio Network. And of course, for those who prefer to stream, there’s a link available online where you can watch with your TV provider login. [[1](https://sports.yahoo.com/illinois-vs-northwestern-score-updates-140120964.html)]
**(Interviewer):** Sounds like there’s no way to miss this exciting showdown. Thanks for joining us today, [Alex Reed Name].
**(Alex Reed):** My pleasure! Go Wildcats!
- Ohio touchdowns (two by rushing, one
