Northwestern benches QB Mike Wright for Jack Lausch

Field Level Media|published: Mon 9th September, 14:27 2024

Sep 9, 2023; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Wildcats quarterback Jack Lausch (12) carries the ball against the University of Texas El Paso Miners at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images

Northwestern is making a change at starting quarterback, replacing Mike Wright with Jack Lausch.

Coach David Braun announced the move Monday as the Wildcats (1-1) prepare to host Eastern Illinois on Saturday.

Wright, a graduate student who previously played at Vanderbilt (2020-22) and Mississippi State (2023), completed 56.9 percent of his passes (37 of 65) for 334 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in the first two games. He also rushed for 81 yards and one score.

Wright's interception came during the first quarter in Northwestern's 26-20, double-overtime loss against visiting Duke last Friday.

Lausch, a redshirt sophomore, played in 10 games for the Wildcats last season. He completed 2 of 3 passes for 10 yards and rushed 19 times for 80 yards and a touchdown, adding two catches for 9 yards.

Northwestern opens the Big Ten campaign on Sept. 21 at Washington.

--Field Level Media