Go U, NU

Today, at 9 AM Los Angeles time, my beloved Northwestern will actually be playing in a Jan. 1 bowl game, which is reasonably prestigious.  The Wildcats were 10-2 during the season, and ended up ranked #12 in the country.  After watching them all year, I feel comfortable saying that they are likely the worst 10-2, and perhaps one of the worst #12 teams ever.  Still, I'd much rather be the worst 10-2 team, than the best 2-10.  Or ranked lower.  They have a good defense, though, and that's held them in good stead.  By the way, my opinion is clearly not alone,  Even though their opponent in the Outback Bowl, Tennessee, is only ranked #23, they are eight point favorites.  (And it's not just that Tennessee are favorites, but eight points is a lot.)

Still, the Wildcats are in a bowl game, and a Jan. 1 game.  And it it will be a joy watching them.  The game will be broadcast on ESPN.

In honor of the game, I have a video that I've posted here before.

Last year, a Northwestern football game was being shown on TV.  during the game, the broadcast of course aired the obligatory 30-second promotional spot for the competing schools.  And...well, let's just say that Northwestern's was COMPLETELY different from any I've ever seen run during a sportscast.  And it was wonderful.  I wish it was longer, but God love 'em for recognizing these promos for what they are -- in one generic eyeball and out the other, saying how glorious and majestic and scholarly Our School is -- and doing something that would actually be attention-getting in a funny, totally bizarre and memorable way.

(It cuts off before the very end.  The last words are coach Pat Fitzgerald's trademark, "Go, Cats!", with which he ends every interview.)

And what the heck, as long as we're here and just about to go into the game itself, here's the Northwestern University Marching Band (affectionately known as "NUMB") cheering them on...
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