Who will be the X-Factors for Wisconsin in their season finale?
Rivalry week is finally here and this year’s Axe game has a lot on the line. The Wisconsin Badgers are on the verge of missing their first bowl game in 22 seasons, but have a chance to retain bowl eligibility with a home win against their arch-rival, the Minnesota Gophers.
Wisconsin comes into this game on a four-game losing streak, but is still favored by three according to most sportsbooks.
Here are three Badgers who can help the program retain bowl eligibility and get that coveted sixth win.
Darrion Dupree
Despite the loss, Darrion Dupree looked really good against Nebraska and was able to make plays on the ground when the offense lacked playmakers and juice. Minnesota has struggled against teams with strong running attacks so Dupree could be a key to a Badger victory.
With continued uncertainty at the offensive coordinator position, Wisconsin needs to continue to go back to the basics and run the ball until it is ineffective. Braedyn Locke looked a lot more comfortable last week, which could open up the run game and help the Badgers find more success on offense.
Christian Alliegro
Christian Alliegro continues to be fantastic both in the run and passing defense. He needs to continue this high level of play and try to create turnovers in order to set the offense up well in this rivalry game.
Bringing pressure on Brosmer helped Rutgers win a big game a few weeks back and could do the same for the Badgers if Alliegro continues to wreak havoc on the defensive side of the ball.
Ricardo Hallman
Ricardo Hallman still hasn’t had a single interception all season. Friday could finally be the game. Senior day where Hallman is getting honored feels like the perfect time for him to capture a crucial interception against the Gophers.
Expect Hallman to be more aggressive in the passing game by trying to break up passes and tip balls.
I don’t know what’s going to happen in this game. Wisconsin has been so inconsistent this season that I don’t know what they will look like or what to expect from them. My final score prediction will be lower and if I had to guess I’d say Wisconsin somehow finds a way to win with a final score around 21-17.
Minnesota looked rough against Rutgers who Wisconsin dismantled and I think head coach Luke Fickell will feel a lot of pressure to win this game.