The Northwestern Wildcats started hot and never looked back as they trounced the Illinois Fighting Illini 61-23 at Ryan Field Saturday, clinching a share of the Big Ten title.
Sports takes a look at how their journeys have come full circle.
After the Wildcats' embarrassing 27-17 loss to Iowa last Saturday, head coach Randy Walker wasted little time to begin the process of bouncing back. The Northwestern Wildcats are one of four teams that can still reach the Rose Bowl entering the final week of the season. This Saturday, the Wildcats are back on Ryan Field for one final time in 2000. They know a victory against the Fighting Illini means a share of the Big Ten Title and, depending on how some other games shake down, a trip to Pasadena. They're also mad after last week's uninspired performance in Iowa City.