Tulane opened its 2025 season with a convincing victory over Northwestern, winning 23-3 in a game that never felt competitive. The Green Wave scored 20 points through the first half alone, with 7 in the first quarter and 13 in the second, establishing early control that Northwestern could not challenge.

Northwestern's offense struggled throughout, managing just a field goal in the opening quarter. Quarterback Preston Stone completed 161 passing yards but was intercepted twice, including a second-half pick-six by Javion White that essentially sealed the game. Chase Farrell led Northwestern receivers with 8 catches, but the Wildcats couldn't generate consistent offensive momentum.

Tulane's rushing attack proved effective, with Maurice Turner leading all rushers with 86 yards. The Green Wave's defense dominated the second quarter, forcing a critical turnover on Northwestern's Stone that swung momentum decisively. Tulane held Northwestern scoreless after the first quarter, a defensive masterclass that set the tone for the lopsided result.

The game finished well under the 46-point over-under line, with Tulane easily covering its 5-point spread at home.