Wisconsin looked to get back on track with a big win against first place Purdue. After a disappointing loss in double overtime last weekend, the Badgers played an amazing game on homecoming and knocked off Purdue 35-24. Here’s three things from the win.
Perfect Start
Although myself and a lot of Badger fans around the country missed this amazing start thanks to ESPN. The Badgers came out firing on both sides of the ball. An impressive first drive that featured some nice play from Mertz finished with a long touchdown pass.
In case you missed it…pic.twitter.com/zyGQ3Jel5E
— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) October 22, 2022
On the first Purdue possession, John Torchio, the “jewel thief”, strikes again as he takes an interception to the house. It’s his second one this season and gave Wisconsin an early two touchdown lead. Purdue had been great in first quarters this season outscoring their opponents 60-10. This was pivotal for the Badgers to start strong this afternoon, they did and didn’t look back.
Bend don’t break
Purdue’s offense is no slouch by any means. Quarterback Aidan O’Connell leads the Big Ten in passing yards per game. The Badgers defense, especially in the first half, was playing bend but don’t break defense. Purdue was moving the ball well both on the ground and through the air. However, this only accumulated to three points in the first half, thanks to a stop on fourth down and a pick six by Wisconsin’s defense.
Wisconsin’s defense is not as dominant as we have seen in recent years. Combine that with stars Keeanu Benton and Nick Herbig who have dealt with injuries both missing time this season. A different approach must be taken by this group and “bend but don’t break” seems to be the answer. Allowing yards is going to happen with this group, but getting stops in pivotal moments to limit points is key. Turnovers are also a good way to do this, and Wisconsin leads the FBS in interceptions. Jordan Turner and John Torchio both came away with interceptions today to add to the total.
Wisconsin owns Purdue?
Coming into today’s game, Wisconsin had beaten Purdue 15 straight times. In those 15 wins, the average point differential was over 20 points per game. Wisconsin continued this streak in a much needed game to keep their hopes alive in the West. Don’t take for granted the fact that it’s been since 2003 that Purdue has beat the Badgers. That kind of dominance isn’t seen much, especially in the always competitive Big Ten.
By the way, Big Ten officials had themselves a tough day this afternoon. One of the worst calls I have seen all year with the offensive pass interference in the 3rd quarter. Followed by one of the worst calls I have ever seen in football with the “touchdown” they gifted Purdue on 4th and goal. Officiating hasn’t been a huge problem this season, but the Badgers got a tough whistle today.
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