After exceeding all expectations in 2023, Northwestern went 7-5 under head coach David Braun and made it to the Las Vegas Bowl against 8-4 Utah. But after making great coaching decisions all season, Braun made a headscratcher early in the game.
In the middle of the second quarter with the game tied at 0-0, Northwestern found themselves in a 4th-and-inches position from the 42-yard line. But rather than attempt an extra long field goal or the much gutsier decision of trying to make the first down, Braun sent out the punt team.
It was a baffling decision that had some fans perplexed and others downright furious but the punt itself made it even worse.
Wildcats punter Hunter Renning was only able to get the ball to the Utah 12-yard line – making it a 29-yard punt.
Fans didn’t mince words in expressing how awful they felt the decision was.
What an embarrassing punt attempt by Northwestern. pic.twitter.com/eexwHqMZIB
— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) December 24, 2023
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Northwestern really punt from the Utah 39
— Cody H (@Chosen_Brand) December 24, 2023
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Northwestern just punted on 4th and 1 from the attacking 42 and Utah fair caught it at the 13 for a 29 yard net punt.
WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE?!
— Cole 🦐🥏 (@colerocket21) December 24, 2023
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That’s grounds to fire a coach
— Cody Rompalo (@CodyRompalo) December 24, 2023
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Fortunately, Utah didn’t make the Wildcats pay for the baffling decision as they mustered only 19 yards on the ensuing drive.
Then on their next offensive possession, the trio of Ben Bryant, Anthony Tyus III and Cam Porter drove the Wildcats down the field for a touchdown and the first points of the game.
Northwestern holds a 7-0 lead at halfitme.
The game is being played on ABC.