Northwestern University’s football program confirmed that Aidan Chiles will serve as the Wildcats’ starting quarterback for the upcoming 2026 season. The decision, reported by ESPN, was announced Monday and marks a new chapter for both Chiles and the Wildcats’ offense.

Chiles’ collegiate journey

Chiles began his college career at Oregon State, where he threw for 309 yards and four touchdowns in 2023 before following head coach Jonathan Smith to Michigan State. Over the last two seasons with the Spartans, Chiles started 20 games, accumulating 3,807 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and 14 interceptions.

Transfer to Northwestern

Following Michigan State’s 4‑8 season and the dismissal of coach Smith, Chiles entered the transfer portal and chose Northwestern. He won the starting role over Ryan Boe, who logged only 20 passing attempts over two seasons, and West Virginia transfer Nicco Marchiol, who posted 1,462 yards and 10 touchdowns in four seasons at his previous school.

New offensive leadership

Northwestern’s offense will be directed by newly hired offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, a former head coach at Oregon and UCLA and the offensive mind behind Ohio State’s 2024 national title run. Kelly’s experience is expected to shape the Wildcats’ attack as they prepare for their season opener.

Season opener

The Wildcats will begin their 2026 campaign on Sept. 5 against South Dakota State, a non‑conference opponent that will test the new quarterback‑coach combination early in the year.

Chiles’ move to Northwestern adds a seasoned passer to a program looking to improve its standing in the Big Ten, while Kelly’s offensive pedigree offers a fresh strategic outlook for the Wildcats.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.