Northwestern defeats South Dakota State 34-18 in season opener

Northwestern defeated South Dakota State 34-18 at Martin Stadium on Saturday. Quarterback Aidan Chiles finished 14-of-24 for 273 yards and two total touchdowns in his debut for the Wildcats. The Northwestern defense held the Jackrabbits to four field goals on five red-zone trips despite allowing 432 total yards. Running back Joseph Himon II highlighted a 202-yard rushing performance for the team with an 80-yard touchdown run late in the game. During the contest, center Jackson Carsello was carted off the field with an injury, though head coach David Braun reported he was in good spirits afterward. Punter Nikola Dugandzic struggled in his debut, averaging 24.0 yards per punt in windy conditions.

• 4:02 PMYahoo Sports — Stock up, stock down for Northwestern’s 34-18 victory against South Dakota State