New Era Pinstripe Bowl 2016: Pitt vs. Northwestern Live Score and Highlights

Northwestern 31, Pittsburgh 24. Game Over.

Northwestern struggled historically in bowl season, but the Wildcats overcame that challenge Wednesday against one of the ACC's top teams in Pittsburgh, as the two battled in the 2016 Pinstripe Bowl on ESPN.

Justin Jackson took home MVP honors, as he gashed Pittsburgh's defense for 224 yards and three touchdowns on the ground. He displayed tremendous power and speed, running for a 68-yard gain while also powering for several key third downs.

James Conner entered the game as the prominent rusher, but the junior was considerably quiet in his final collegiate game. He finished with just 32 yards on eight carries, and he was knocked out the contest right before halftime after a hit to the head. 

Injuries proved to be a major obstacle for the Panthers, with starting quarterback Nathan Peterman leaving in the fourth quarter after a hit to the head and guard Dorian Johnson also getting banged up. As a result, freshman Ben DiNucci entered the game and was picked off twice on Pittsburgh's last two possessions to seal a Northwestern win.

The Wildcats received just enough from Clayton Thorson, 214 yards with a touchdown and interception, but it was the defense who earned the win. 

Pitt entered the game ranked among the nation's best in red zone offense, but Northwestern forced three turnovers in that situation, including an interception each of DiNucci and Peterman.

The win gives the Wildcats its third bowl victory since 1948, and it makes the senior class the first to win two bowl games. Northwestern finishes its season at 7-6, while Pittsburgh drops to 8-5.