Northwestern University

EVANSTON, Ill. – The No. 1 Northwestern Wildcats (15-0, 5-0 B1G) are on the verge of securing another Big Ten regular-season title as they prepare for a critical two-game road trip at Michigan. This weekend, the Wildcats face No. 7 Michigan in Ann Arbor on Friday, October 25th at 3 p.m. CT (4 p.m. ET) before meeting on Sunday, October 27th at 12 p.m. CT (1 p.m. ET). East Lansing travel to face Michigan State ET).

??Ann Arbor

Preview???: https://t.co/JOHnXkfD2j pic.twitter.com/MIUsQWsDeJ

– Northwestern Field Hockey (@NUFHCats) October 24, 2024

Friday's showdown will be broadcast live on BTN, while Sunday's contest will be available on B1G+.

The Wildcats are in prime position to secure at least a share of the Big Ten title with a win this weekend, and can secure the title with two wins. Northwestern's perfect 15-0 start puts them in control of their own destiny, and the team is committed to maintaining its unblemished conference record heading into this crucial stretch.

With a win over Michigan on Friday, the Wildcats would clinch a share of the conference championship, and a win on Sunday would guarantee the overall title.

Friday's matchup: No. 7 Michigan (11-2, 4-2 B1G)

Northwestern's road trip begins with a high-risk battle against No. 7 Michigan in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines, currently 11-2 overall and 4-2 in conference play, are among the Big Ten's top contenders and will look to bounce back from last weekend's tough 2-0 loss to No. 8 Maryland recover. Michigan has one of the best defensive units in the country, allowing just 0.92 goals per game, which ranks third in the nation. That defensive prowess will be tested against Northwestern's explosive offense, which leads the conference in goals scored.

The last time these two teams met, Northwestern earned a narrow 1-0 win Lauren Wadas He scored the winning goal in the 54th minute. Friday's game is expected to be another closely contested matchup with both teams vying for postseason placement and a shot at the Big Ten title. For Michigan, this game is crucial to keeping their own title hopes alive, while the Wildcats will look to continue their unbeaten streak and secure the championship.

Sunday's matchup: Michigan State (7-8, 0-5 B1G)

Following the game against Michigan, Northwestern will conclude its regular season away schedule with a match against Michigan State. The Spartans have struggled in conference play this season, entering the weekend with a 7-8 overall record while remaining winless at 0-5 in Big Ten play. Michigan State is currently on a two-game losing streak and will first face No. 16 Iowa on Friday before facing the Wildcats on Sunday.

Last season, Northwestern dominated Michigan State 6-0 Maja Zivojnovic Leading by two goals. The Wildcats' offense, which has been firing on all cylinders this season, will look to repeat that success against a Michigan State team that has allowed an average of 2.8 goals per game in conference play. Sunday's game provides Northwestern with an opportunity to cap off their regular season away schedule in dominant fashion as they head into the postseason.

Key players to watch

Second-year forward Ashley Sessa has been the engine behind Northwestern's offense all season. Sessa, who was recently named both the NFHCA National Offensive Player of the Week and Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week, continues to impress with her playing ability. Last weekend she collected 11 points with four goals and three assists, bringing her total to 45 points this season. Sessa leads the nation in points per game, averaging an astounding 3.00. Her ability to score in key moments and create chances for her teammates has made her one of the most dynamic players in the country.

Make your mark??

Once again, Ashley Sessa is called @NFHCA National Offensive Player of the Week! ?? pic.twitter.com/ery74H9lTJ

– Northwestern Field Hockey (@NUFHCats) October 23, 2024

Fellow sophomore Piper Borz has also emerged as a crucial offensive weapon for the Wildcats. Borz had an outstanding performance last weekend, picking up nine points, four goals and one assist. While the Wildcats' offense continues to function, Borz and Sessa will be the key players to watch this weekend as Northwestern takes on two of the physically strongest defenses in the Big Ten.

The Northwest is making history

Northwestern's 15-0 start to the season marks the longest undefeated run in program history, surpassing the team's 14-0 start in 1985. This year's Wildcats have not only set a new program record, but have also established themselves as one of the favorites positioned for the NCAA Championship. With three games remaining in the regular season, Northwestern is focused on maintaining its perfect record and continuing its quest for a conference title.

The Wildcats are rewriting the record books and their pursuit of an undefeated season has garnered national attention. Head coach Tracey Fox has built a program that consistently competes at the highest level, and this year's team is no exception. With a balanced attack, strong defense and outstanding performances from key players, Northwestern has established itself as a powerhouse in college field hockey.

Fans can watch Friday's highly anticipated game against Michigan live on BTN and Sunday's game against Michigan State on B1G+. The Wildcats are closing in on history and this weekend could be the defining moment on their path to the Big Ten title.