Tim McGarigle attended Saint Patrick High School in Chicago, Illinois where he played linebacker and running back. As a senior he totaled 107 tackles and 3 1/2 sacks on defense. On offense he rushed for 1,457 yards and 12 touchdowns. He helped Saint Patrick to a 6-3 record and a second round playoff appearance. He was named honorable mention all-state, all-area, and first team all-conference for his play as a senior. He was also named team MVP and conference defensive player of the year. Tim was recruited by Illinois, but opted to attend Northwestern instead. McGarigle was forced into the starting lineup as a true freshman due to injuries at the linebacker position. He responded with 98 tackles on the season. As a sophomore he finished with 140 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception on his way to honorable mention all-big ten honors. As a junior he totaled 151 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception. He was named first team all-big ten and team MVP for his performance as a junior. McGarigle had his best season as a senior, finishing with career highs in tackles (156) and sacks (2). He also had 1 fumble and 1 interception on the year. He was named second team all-big ten following his final season at Northwestern.

Tim McGarigle has a great deal of experience against top competition, having started the past four seasons at Northwestern in the big ten. During that time he has proven to be an extremely durable player who rarely misses time due to injury. He is an intelligent player and a great leader on the field. He is an extremely hard worker with a non-stop motor. He is a tough, aggressive linebacker with outstanding instincts. He quickly locates the ball and always seems to be around the action. He makes plays all over the field and excels at making tackles in the open field. McGarigle lacks ideal size and speed for a linebacker. He will struggle to shed blocks and would benefit from bulking up and increasing his strength. His lack of speed and athleticism makes him a liability in coverage. Tim McGarigle is an excellent run defender with a ton of experience. He will may be limited to being a two down linebacker at the next level and should be a second day pick in the 2006 NFL draft.