As spring practice approaches, we're taking a snapshot of the state of each Big Ten program. We're evaluating recent performance, won-loss trends, coaching, current personnel and future personnel.

Up next: the Northwestern Wildcats

2014 record: 5-7 (3-5 Big Ten)

Three-year record: 20-20

Coaching situation: After a breakthrough season in 2012, ninth-year coach Pat Fitzgerald has reached a crossroads after consecutive bowl-less campaigns. The team stumbled out of the gate this past season with home losses to Cal and Northern Illinois. Despite three solid wins, the Wildcats never achieved consistency and struggled at Ryan Field for the second straight year. Fitzgerald kept his entire staff in place despite some calls for changes, especially on the offensive side. Although Fitzgerald is safe thanks to a contract running through 2020, the staff needs to show improvement this coming season.

Roster situation: A rash of injuries has forced Northwestern to play more underclassmen than normal, which could pay off in 2015. The team loses starting quarterback Trevor Siemian, safety Ibraheim Campbell and some key pieces at linebacker and receiver but returns good depth overall. Christian Jones, the Wildcats' top receiver in 2013, is back following injury, and the team returns both of its lines mostly intact. Young players like running back Justin Jackson and linebacker Anthony Walker provided bright spots last fall.

Recruiting situation: Northwestern's recruiting model hasn't changed dramatically despite the team's struggles, as the Wildcats typically rack up early commitments and have few signing day surprises. Although the 2015 class wasn't as acclaimed as its predecessor, Northwestern added some nice pieces at wide receiver (Flynn Nagel, Cameron Green, Jelani Roberts), linebacker (Nathan Fox) and elsewhere. The Wildcats continued to cast a national recruiting net with 20 prospects from 11 different states.

Trajectory: Down. Northwestern seemed to reach the next level by getting over its bowl bugaboo on Jan. 1, 2013, at the Gator Bowl. But since a 4-0 start the following season, the Wildcats haven't had much go their way, enduring a spike in injuries, off-field issues and choppy performance, especially on their home field. Northwestern actually has played well enough on defense to sustain its run of solid play. But the offense has lost its edge and must build an identity with a mostly or completely unproven quarterback this season. Fitzgerald talked a lot last season about immaturity and the need for younger players, thrust into action before their time, to grow up. The coaches are adamant that the talent level, especially from a speed standpoint, is better now than ever. But the results need to change, and Northwestern must recapture its vigor on offense and its ability to win close games.