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Northwestern Football: Key Injury Updates Ahead of Oregon
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- Northwestern Football: Key Injury Updates Ahead of Oregon
Northwestern received a potential boost ahead of Saturday's matchup against Oregon , as tight end Luke Dehnicke is no longer listed on the latest Big Ten availability report. However, the Wildcats will be without safety Robert Fitzgerald as they prepare for one of their toughest road tests of the season.
Dehnicke has not played since Northwestern's Sept. 25 matchup against Indiana , when he recorded seven receptions for 140 yards. His performance against the Hoosiers showed the impact he can make in the passing game, giving quarterback Aidan Chiles a reliable target capable of creating plays downfield.
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With Northwestern preparing to face an Oregon team that will be looking to adjust offensively, having another experienced receiving option available could be important. Dehnicke's removal from the availability report is an encouraging sign, although his availability should be confirmed closer to kickoff.
Fitzgerald, meanwhile, remains out. The safety has been an important part of Northwestern's defense, and his absence presents another challenge for a unit preparing to face the Ducks on the road. Northwestern's defense will need to communicate effectively and limit explosive plays as Oregon adjusts to a new offensive play-caller .
Brendan Flakes is listed as doubtful, while Robby Preckel remains questionable. Flakes has contributed on special teams, including blocking a key field goal in Northwestern's win over Michigan State . His potential absence could affect the Wildcats' special teams depth against Oregon.
Oct 2, 2026; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Wildcats defensive lineman Brendan Flakes (15) celebrates the Cats win against the Penn State Nittany Lions at New Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Several other players remain out, including offensive lineman Ezomo Oratokhai, Josh Fussell, Daniel Anderson, Max Mohring, Jason Reynolds II, Callen Campbell, Qayvier Johnson, Jacob Miller and Chris Petrucci. Braxton Strong is also listed as out after previously being listed as doubtful.
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Oratokhai's absence is still notable, but the offensive lineman has been sidelined for an extended period, and Northwestern has continued to find ways to adjust up front.
The Wildcats have received contributions from other players along the offensive line, helping the unit maintain its consistency despite losing an important piece. That depth will remain important against an Oregon defense that will look to pressure Chiles and disrupt the Wildcats' offensive rhythm.
Northwestern enters Saturday's contest riding a four-game winning streak after victories over Michigan State and Rutgers. The Wildcats have shown they can produce points and make key plays in crucial moments, but facing Oregon on the road will provide another test of their depth and consistency.
With several players still sidelined, Northwestern will need contributions from across its roster. Dehnicke's potential return would provide a welcome boost, while the defense must find ways to compensate for Fitzgerald's absence as the Wildcats look to extend their winning streak.
