Oct. 5, 2008
EVANSTON, Ill. -- Buoyed by its 5-0 start, Northwestern has climbed today to No. 22 in the USA Today Coaches' poll and No. 23 in the Harris Interactive poll. The Wildcats also are receiving votes in this week's Associated Press poll (30th).
This marks the first time since Nov. 12, 2005 that Northwestern has achieved a top-25 ranking in one of the three primary BCS polls. On that date, the Wildcats were ranked No. 25 (AP).
"One of our goals this year is to consistently prepare each week," said NU head coach Pat Fitzgerald. "Thus far, we have done a pretty solid job of preparing and giving ourselves a chance to win on Saturdays. Right now, we're focused on this week's challenge, and that's preparing consistently for a talented and physical Michigan State team."
Michigan State, which also has won five consecutive games like the Wildcats, is ranked in all three polls: No. 23 (AP), No. 19 (USA Today Coaches) and No. 21 (Harris). Saturday's 2:30 p.m. contest at Ryan Field marks the first time since Oct. 29, 2005 (NU vs. Michigan) that both Northwestern and its opponent come into the game ranked in the top-25.
Kickoff versus the Spartans is set for 2:30 p.m. CT (ESPN2, WGN (720 AM), WNUR (89.3 FM) this Saturday, Oct. 11 at Ryan Field.