Wildcats linebacker Chris Bergin knows that his team isn’t getting the respect they deserve coming into this season but he doesn’t seem phased by it.

Bergin spoke to the media on Monday afternoon about how respect is earned and how the Wildcats need to show that this season.

In the video, Bergin says, “Well respect is earned. And with us having the least amount of returning production in college football, we haven’t earned respect. It’s as simple as that. Last year’s team, we earned it. This year’s team, we’re going to earn it. So, am I surprised? No. Do I think we should have it? No. Do I think we’re gonna earn it? Yes.”

Northwestern was also not picked to win the B1G West this season and aren’t in the AP or USA Today preseason polls either, despite winning their division in 2020.

Bergin will be hoping that his team starts to earn some respect when they open their season this Friday against Michigan State at 9 p.m. ET. The game will be televised by ESPN.