The list of Big Ten schools that haven't played in a bowl after either of the last two seasons is short and not-so-sweet:

Northwestern.

That fact doesn't sit well with third-year coach Pat Fitzgerald, so he decided to make things happen during the offseason. Defensive coordinator Greg Colby kindly was not invited to return, which allowed Fitzgerald to snag 40-year veteran Mike Hankwitz when he was cut loose by Wisconsin.

Offensive coordinator Garrick McGee left to take Arkansas' quarterbacks job when Bobby Petrino took over the Hogs, which allowed Fitzgerald to bring in Bowling Green's Mick McCall to run the offensive show.

Fitzgerald believes he upgraded in both instances -- and stated once again on Signing Day that he believes Northwestern's talent level has never been higher since he returned to the program as an assistant coach in 2001.

But will the Wildcats be able to capitalize and make their first postseason appearance since the 2005 Sun Bowl? If they can identify three worthy offensive linemen during spring ball, that would go a long way toward grading a road to the upper half of the Big Ten.

Center Trevor Rees and left tackle Dylan Thiry are going to be particularly missed on the line. Northwestern has stacked offensive linemen in recent recruiting classes, but most of the sophomores and none of the redshirt freshmen have any experience. Is there an unknown waiting to step forward?

If NU solidifies its line, sorts out its linebackers and finds two healthy safeties, this team ought to finish the 2008 season with a bowl bid.

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