'Cats Trek to Rocky Top for Non-Conference Finale at No. 10 Tennessee

EVANSTON, Ill. – Northwestern closes out non-conference play on Sunday with a road test at No. 10 Tennessee. Kickoff from Regal Soccer Stadium is set for 1 p.m. CT on SEC Network+.

Last time out, Northwestern (2-2-2) extended its shutout streak in a scoreless draw against Loyola Chicago. The clean sheet marked NU’s second straight and third of the season. The Wildcats dominated possession, outshooting LU 19-3, but couldn’t find the back of the net. Loyola’s three shots match their season low, set against No. 5 Michigan State and Iowa. 

The ‘Cats have tallied four goals and five assists so far in 2026, coming from eight different players. Senior forward Sarah O'Donnell leads all 'Cats with three points (one goal, one assist).

Northwestern returns 76.6% of its games started, 75.2% of its minutes played, 76.9% of its goals scored, 82.8% of its assists and 79.0% of its points from its 2025 team.

The Wildcats are 0-1 all-time against Tennessee, falling 3-2 in the lone prior meeting in Knoxville on Oct. 29, 2000.

No. 10 Tennessee (4-0-1) enters the contest unbeaten on the season, most recently picking up a 1-1 draw at No. 12 Virginia. Fifth-year forward Kylee Simmons leads the Volunteers with three goals and two assists. Junior goalkeeper Cayden Norris has played the bulk of minutes for UT, posting a .714 save percentage to go with a 0.43 goals against average. 

The Wildcats will host Michigan to open up Big Ten play on Thursday, Sept. 10. Kickoff from Northwestern Medicine Field is set for 6:30 p.m. CT on B1G+.