Early Week 1 preview: Northwestern

The 2012 football season is rapidly approaching, and to get you ready, we're providing a very early preview of each Week 1 matchup in the Big Ten. Northwestern opens the 2012 season where it typically does -- on the road. This fall brings a changing of the guard for Pat Fitzgerald's crew, as standout quarterback Dan Persa and a large senior class departs. Here's a look at what the Wildcats face in Week 1. For more Week 1 matchups, click here. Week 1 opponent: Syracuse (road) Coach: Doug Marrone (fourth year, 17-20) 2011 record: 5-7 (1-6 Big East) Returning starters: 14 (5 offense, 7 defense, 2 specialists) About the Orange: After an 8-5 season and a Pinstripe Bowl victory in 2010, Syracuse took a step back last season, dropping its final five games to miss out on a bowl trip.