Northwestern's Offensive Explosion Matters, Even Against Cleveland State

Ryan Cole

Nov 12, 2025, 00:29

Ryan Cole

Nov 12, 2025, 00:29

Updated at: Nov 12, 2025, 00:29

Northwestern fans seem a little scared to make too much out of last night's 110-63 blow out victory over Cleveland State. And I get it. The Vikings are a Horizon League team, and, ultimately, this group needs to be able to compete in the Big Ten.

While that's true, I'd like to advocate for a different approach -- just enjoy it. Last night was a truly awesome performance from the 'Cats. Everything on offense clicked, from Arrinten Page interior looks to Max Green three pointers to Justin Mullins, and all of that matters, even against Cleveland State.

Against a Division I college basketball team, Northwestern dominated at a level we haven't seen, even since the Boo Buie-era began. There are a few very positive things I think are safe to assume about this team after last night.

First, this team is fast, faster than any recent Northwestern squad. Jayden Reid is a complete game changer running the point. He's a blur running down the court on the fast break. He's lightning in a bottle playing half court defense, switching between offensive players and covering driving lanes.

Everything he does is fast, and, as head coach Chris Collins has now said multiple times, he inspires his teammates to play fast as well. It's going to make a huge difference, even in Big Ten play.

Could Reid be neutralized as a scorer because of his height? Maybe. But the speed isn't going anywhere, and its impact on the pace of Northwestern's offense isn't going anywhere either. It's going to serve this team well all season.

Another thing that is becoming clear is the depth this team has. The 'Cats had five players score above 15 points last night. Discounting Gus Hurlburt and Phoenix Gill, 11 players saw real minutes on the floor.

That's a welcome development for a team that has run much shorter rotations and benches in recent seasons. Collins says he's feeling it out during the game right now, but the minutes will likely become more consistent over time. Having options is a great thing.

Even Max Green, who fell out of favor after a difficult first two games, made a huge statement last night with a whopping 16 points in six minutes. He still needs to prove he can be a consistent contributor when he's not on an insane three-point shooting heater, but it was a heck of a performance.

A win over Cleveland State in the third game of the season doesn't mean Northwestern is automatically a tournament team. But it did raise its Kenpom ranking to No. 40 in the nation after the contest. That's a good start.

It isn't fair to discount a 110-point performance against any team, so don't do it. Give credit where credit is deserved -- Northwestern looked fantastic last night, and fans should be excited.

Northwestern's Offensive Explosion Matters, Even Against Cleveland State