Wildcats Rally From Eight Point Deficit to Secure 24-21 Road Victory
The Northwestern Wildcats delivered a dramatic comeback Saturday, defeating Michigan State 24-21 with a last-second field goal at Spartan Stadium. No. 25 Northwestern overcame an eight-point fourth-quarter deficit to improve to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in Big Ten play, extending its impressive start to the 2026 season.
Jackson Kleather proved to be the hero, drilling a 34 yard field goal with just two seconds remaining to complete the comeback. The victory also gave Northwestern a significant road win as the Wildcats continue building momentum under head coach David Braun.
Chiles Leads Northwestern’s Comeback
Quarterback Aidan Chiles played a major role in Northwestern’s victory, completing 18 of 27 passes for 226 yards while adding a rushing touchdown. The former Michigan State quarterback returned to face his previous team and delivered when the Wildcats needed him most.
Northwestern opened the scoring with a field goal, but Michigan State responded with a rushing touchdown from quarterback Alessio Milivojevic to take a 7-3 lead.
Running back Caleb Komolafe answered with a 10 yard touchdown run, putting Northwestern ahead 10-7. However, Milivojevic connected with Bryson Williams for a 32 yard touchdown late in the first half, giving the Spartans a 14-10 advantage at halftime.
Michigan State extended its lead in the fourth quarter when Milivojevic threw a 53-yard touchdown pass to Chrishon McCray, putting the Spartans ahead 21-13.
Defense and Special Teams Deliver
With Northwestern facing a potential defeat, Chiles scored on a one-yard rushing touchdown before connecting with Alex Honig for a successful two-point conversion to tie the game at 21-21.
Michigan State had an opportunity to regain the lead, but its 33-yard field-goal attempt was blocked with just over a minute remaining.
The Wildcats capitalized on the opportunity, driving 64 yards in eight plays to set up Kleather’s winning kick.
Wildcats Build Momentum
Northwestern’s comeback showcased the team’s resilience and ability to execute under pressure. Kleather finished with three field goals, while Komolafe contributed a rushing touchdown and 118 total yards from scrimmage.
Michigan State fell to 2-5 overall and 0-4 in Big Ten play after suffering another painful loss.
For Northwestern, the victory strengthens its position in the conference race and gives the Wildcats confidence heading into their upcoming matchup against Rutgers. With Chiles leading the offense and the defense making crucial plays, Northwestern continues to establish itself as a team capable of competing with the Big Ten’s best.