Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald of Northwestern at Big Ten Media Day

Sam Wenk is LIVE at the Big Ten Media Day in Chicago.

The Big Ten coaches were asked a number of questions.  Here are some quotes from Pat Fitzgerald from the first day.

Northwestern Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald

“Last year we took some positive steps forward.  Not very satisfied with the overall outcome (of last season).  We had a great offseason.  (The) leadership within the locker room has been outstanding.”

On new offensive coordinator Mick McCall: 

“(It’s) Mick MCall’s offense.  (The offense will) take on the personality of Mick.”

On the benefits of the spread offense: 

“(It allows) so much flexibility.  (It provides) different concepts offensively with speed on the field.  It puts the defense on their heels.”

On starting running back Tyrell Sutton:

“His injury was a fact of life.  He has a tremendous attitude and (is) ultra competitive.  If he truly stays healthy, (he) has the chance to be the all-time leading rusher in Northwestern history.”

On the importance of finishing games: 

“We stress finishing in everything we do.  At the end of the day it comes down to confidence.  (We were) extremely successful in overtime games (last season).”

On his first year as a head coach last season: 

“As a coach you always learn.  Last year I thought we took a positive step forward and I learned a lot about myself.”

On the dominance of Ohio State:

“Everyone’s always looking up at Ohio State.  When you go to back-to-back National Championships (you deserve to be the favorite).”