Already two games have past for the Wisconsin Football team. They stand at 1-1 after a 31-22 loss to Washington State Saturday. To this point, we have seen a game where the running game was spectacular and a game where the passing game was better. While there is still a lot of games left in the regular season, here is what we know so far about the 1-1 Wisconsin Badgers.
The Wisconsin Football Offense Continue to be a Work in Progress
Ncaa Football Wisconsin Badgers At Ohio State Buckeyesnn© Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
We know this about the Wisconsin Football offense: They can run the ball successfully and they can throw the ball successfully. The problem? Through two games, they haven’t been able to do both in the same game. The running game was great against Buffalo, but only recorded 90 yards on the ground against Wazzu.
On the other hand, after the passing game struggled against Buffalo, Tanner Mordecai and this group of talented receivers played much better against Washington State. It still needs to sync together, but when it does, this team can put up points in a hurry.
The Defense is Starting Settle in
The defense was really bad for the first 20 minutes of game clock against Washington State. They had issues with the temp of the Wazzu offense and struggled to defend down the field. There was also issues against Buffalo generating pressure and tackling in the open field.
However, once the defense settled in on Saturday, they are the reason this Wisconsin Football team almost completed the comeback. They brought pressure from the linebackers and made a good quarterback in Cam Ward uncomfortable in the second half.
I think what we saw in the second half was what this defense will be going forward. It’s likely not going to be as dominant as Jim Leonhard’s defenses were, but it’s still an above average group and they can keep the Badgers in games and win them games. Right now, I’m not worried yet about this defense.
Everything is Still in Front of this Team
A loss this early is never ideal. However, this was a non-conference loss and it has no meanings on the Big Ten season. This Wisconsin Football team was not going 12-0. Everything is still in front of them and what they want to accomplish.
It’s also worth noting none of the other Big Ten West teams have stood out either. Iowa and Minnesota are both undefeated but haven’t looked all that impressive on the offensive side. I am still confident the Badgers have the best offense in the West and it might not be close.
There’s still 10 games left in the season. After a final non-conference tuneup Saturday against Georgia Southern, the real test that is the Big Ten schedule begins.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the University of Wisconsin's biggest rival?
The University of Wisconsin's biggest rival is the Minnesota Golden Gophers. This rivalry game is protected by the Big Ten, and the Badgers have emerged victorious in 16 of their last 18 matchups.
Who owns Camp Randall?
The Wisconsin Badgers Athletics Department at the University of Wisconsin–Madison owns Camp Randall Stadium. It serves as the home field for the university's football team.
