Jones to start at WR

True freshman Christian Jones has claimed the starting Z-wide receiver spot, beating out Rashad Lawrence.

That was the only change to the depth chart released today by Northwestern for Saturday night's game against Iowa.

Lawrence had started the first five games at the Z outside receiver position. The sophomore got the start against Michigan last Saturday but did not have a catch and dropped what could have been a touchdown pass right before halftime. Northwestern kicked a field goal on the next play to push its lead to 24-14, so Lawrence's drop essentially cost the Wildcats four points.

Jones, meanwhile, wound up with three catches for 68 yards against the Wolverines, including a 39-yarder to the Michigan 2-yard line that set up a touchdown on the following play. He was named Northwestern's offensive big playmaker for his performance.

Regardless of who starts, both receivers are likely to continue to see extensive action for the Wildcats.

Award winners

Here are Northwestern's player of the week award winners for the Michigan game. The interesting news here is that no one received the defensive player of the week award after the Wildcats allowed 541 yards and 42 points to the Wolverines.

Offensive player: Kain Colter

Offensive big playmaker: Christian Jones

Offensive practice player: Nick VanHoose

Defensive player: None

Defensive big playmaker: Ibraheim Campbell

Defensive practice player: Timmy Vernon

Special teams player: Venric Mark

Special teams practice player: Ricky Weina