Sources: N'western to start QB Wright in opener

Northwestern is slated to start Mike Wright at quarterback Saturday against Miami (Ohio), sources told ESPN, making it the third power conference program where he has been a starter.

Wright played at Mississippi State in 2023 and Vanderbilt from 2020 to 2022 prior to arriving at Northwestern. He had been engaged in a close competition with redshirt sophomore Jack Lausch during training camp.

Wright's experience and versatility were attractive to Northwestern coaches. Coach David Braun brought in a new offensive coordinator this year, Zach Lujan, and Northwestern will have a new look on offense. Wright's experience, versatility and ability to run the ball loomed as factors in the decision.

Wright has 14 starts over his career and played in 39 total games. He started three games at Mississippi State last year and 11 during his time at Vanderbilt.

In his career, Wright has thrown for 2,520 yards and 24 touchdowns. He's also rushed for 1,229 yards and 10 touchdowns.

In former quarterback Ben Bryant's final year of eligibility in 2023, Northwestern went 8-5 and beat Utah in the Las Vegas Bowl. That season secured the full-time coaching job for Braun, who was an interim coach throughout the 2023 season.

Northwestern returns 76% of its defensive production, the most college football. They finished No. 35 in total defense and No. 121 in total offense.

The Wildcats will face a Miami team that won the MAC in 2023.