The Big Ten Conference today released its 2020 football schedule with eight regular season games, plus a ninth championship or bonus game for each team.
Northwestern opens at home versus Maryland on Oct. 24. Its other home games are against Nebraska, Wisconsin and Illinois.
The Big Ten had cancelled its season due to concerns over COVID-19, but earlier this week reversed that decision, saying daily COVID testing and other precautions made it safe to play.
However, the only fans allowed in to the games will be relatives of players and staff.
There are no bye weeks, so it’s unclear what will happen (will it be a forfeit?) if a team cannot play due to a COVID outbreak. Several teams in other Power Five conference, such as Virginia, Virginia Tech, North Carolina, and Baylor, have had COVID-related cancellations or postponements.
Here is Northwestern’s schedule:
Oct. 24 vs Maryland (home)
Oct. 31 vs Iowa (away)
Nov.7 vs Nebraska (home)
Nov. 14 vs Purdue (away)
Nov. 21 vs. Wisconsin (home)
Nov. 28 vs Michigan State (away)
Dec. 5 vs. Minnesota (away)
Dec. 12 vs. Illinois (home)
Dec 19 Big Ten Championship or bonus game