The Northwestern defense continues to make big plays, as the Wildcats lead 21-10 over Minnesota heading into the final quarter. This game has big implications for Northwestern since a victory would mean the Wildcats would be bowl-eligible for the fifth consecutive season.
With the offense struggling to find a rhythm after scoring 21 points in the opening quarter, it has been the Northwestern defense that has been instrumental in maintaining the double-digit lead. With Minnesota driving down to the five yardline, it was Brian Peters who made the play of the game, intercepting Minnesota QB MarQueis Gray in the endzone to help preserve the lead.
Northwestern QB Dan Persa has completed 18/27 for 174 yards and 2 TD's. Senior RB Jacob Schmidt leads the Wildcats rushing attack, as he has rushed for 42 yards on seven carries.
For game updates all afternoon, make sure to keep up with SB Nation Chicago. For more on each team and fan game threads, visit SB Nation's Northwestern WIldcats blog Sippin' On Purple and SB Nation's Minnesota Golden Gophers blog, The Daily Gopher. Here's the complete Week 12 college football TV schedule, and stay tuned to SB Nation's college football news hub for more.