BTN.com staff, August 26, 2011

Dave Revsine, Gerry DiNardo and Howard Griffith visited Northwestern practice during the BTN Football Tour in August. The Wildcats have played in a school-record three straight bowl games, and while they haven't won a postseason game since 1948, it's clear Pat Fitzgerald has raised expectations. Northwestern doesn't hope to make bowl games any more — it expects to be in one. With Dan Persa back from last year's Achilles' injury, Northwestern should play a 13th game again. The Wildcats open the season Sept. 3 at Boston College. Watch our Northwestern Preview video inside.

Dan Persa is back from last year's season-ending Achilles' injury, but how healthy is he? Persa tells you how he's feeling and what he expects this season below.

Many blamed Dan Persa's injury to some of the late struggles the Northwestern defense encountered last season. Northwestern defensive coordinator Mike Hankwitz doesn't believe it.

Which Wildcats do Coach and Howard think Big Ten fans should look out for in 2011? Find out below.