Badgers Recieve All-Big Ten Honors

The 2010 season has been one of the greatest in Wisconsin football history. With a team worthy of playing in the Rose Bowl there will naturally be some Badgers that qualify for All-Big Ten honors.

First Team Honors

The obvious group of Badgers that would be honored this season with All-Big Ten honors is the offensive line. Despite the play of the entire offensive line only the two seniors find their way on the list for first team All-Big Ten.

Left Guard John Moffit, and Left tackle Gabe Carimi both recieve the honor with a first team selection. Alongside them are three Buckeyes on the media list. As for the coaches list Mike Adams (Ohio State), Stefen Wisniewski (Penn State), and David Molk (Michigan) join Moffit and Carimi on the list. Making the tandem from Wisconsin two of the three "unanimous selections on the offensive line.

Staying on the offensive side of the ball one other Badger gained both the support of the media and the coaches. Senior tight end Lance Kendricks was named to the first team as a tight end. Making him the first Badger to be named the first team tight end since Travis Beckham achieved the honor in 2007. (Garrett Graham was the second team tight end two years in a row.)

On the defensive side of the ball there were two Badgers named to the first team. Including one that was a pick by both the media and the coaches.

Antonio Fenelus received the honor of being named to the first team as a defensive back by the media. Making him the first Badger from the secondary to be on the first team since Jack Ikegwuonu was named to the first team in 2007.

Joining Fenelus on the media list was junior defensive end J.J. Watt. Once considered to be the heir of the defense from O'Brien Schofield, Watt took the thrown with ease this year. Keeping the trend of Badgers on the defensive line that reach the All-Big Ten first team. Not to mention being the final piece in a group of defensive linemen that could be the best in the country with Adrian Clayborn (Iowa), Cameron Heyward (Ohio State), and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue).

Second Team Honors

Junior runningback John Clay led the Badgers with the second team honors by being named on both the coaches and the media lists. In what could be considered to be a down year for the defending Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, Clay was able to remain as one of the top runningback in the conference. Being named to the All-Big Ten team for the second consecutive year.

The man that handed Clay the ball also had a solid season. For the first time senior quarterback Scott Tolzien has been named to the second team by the coaches. With a completion percentage of over 70%, 2,300 yards, and 16 touchdowns Tolzien has put together another solid season under center.

Only one Badger reached the second team on the defensive side of the ball, and it was of course the Badger that made the biggest position change this season. Last season Aaron Henry was a cornerback, but this year the junior decided to make the change to play safety along side Jay Valai. Even with the change in position Henry was able to put together a solid season. Solid enough to be named to the All-Big Ten team as a defensive back.

In total eight Badgers were named to the All-Big Ten team this year. With five of them being named on the first team, and three of those being named by both the coaches and media. Not a bad year by any stretch of the imagination for Bucky.

White Recieves Big Ten Honor

For the second straight year a member of the Wisconsin football team has brought home the Freshman of the Year honor. Last year it was linebacker Chris Borland. This year it's running back James White.

The freshman from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. rushed for over 1,000 yards in his first season as a Badger. As well as finding the endzone 14 times, but it was only recently that White truly stepped into a larger role.

At the beginning of the season their was a lot of talk about White. How good could he be? Would he play? Could he red-shirt? The answers to those questions have now been answered, and the Freshman of the Year honor only proves the results even more. White is good...really good.

On a team with a "three-headed monster" for a rushing game the freshman led the Badgers in rushing during the regular season. Rushing for more yards than starter John Clay, and sophomore Montee Ball. But it was in Clay's absence that White came into his own.

Injured during the Iowa game White was unable to play against the Purdue Boilermakers two weeks later. Then Montee Ball stepped into the starting role, but White stepped in as a true second man. With Clay on the bench with a knee injury White rushed for 459 yards and five touchdowns.

While what White was able to accomplish on the field was impressive, but it he did not do that may be even more surprising. This season White, who was playing high school football a year ago, never fumbled the ball. In his 148 touches the freshman never dropped the ball. At the same time proving to be the Badgers homerun hitter with two rushing touchdowns of over 50 yards.

White's freshman season may have impressive, but what made it the most impressive of all the freshman performances this season was who he did it with. In many cases freshman are substituted for and see limited time. Then do little with that time. This season even with limited time White was able to put together a season worth being placed in the record books, and now it will with the Freshman of the Year award.

More Conference Shake-Up: TCU Heading East...Big East

There has been a lot of talk this season about the non-automatic qualifiers for the BCS. Mainly TCU, and Boise State. With the Broncos lossing to Nevada on Friday night one of them has been taken care off. The other is looking to end their status by joining a BCS conference.

The Horned Frogs from TCU will join the Big East conference in 2012 and will end their tenure as a non-automatic qualifier in the BCS. At the same time elminating the significance of the move by Boise State to the Mountain West that would make the conference one of the best in college football.

Joining Boise State in becoming part of the Mountain West in the following years will be Fresno State and Nevada who are both leaving the WAC. Just like Boise State the Bulldogs and Wolf Pack will become large parts of what was beginning to look like a great football conference.

The key word is of course beginning. Over the past few months the Mountain West has seen the departures of two it's premier programs. Utah leaving for the PAC 10 following this eason, and BYU leaving to become an independent in football and a Big West member in other sports.

Today the departure of TCU is yet another blow to the Mountain West. While the Horned Frogs are saying that the move makes the most sense because of television revenue, one can only ask themselves if they are running from the conference. Not because they want to be an automatic qualifier, but because of the increase in competition.

Recently there has been a lot of talk about teams like TCU playing against "the sisters of the poor," but the Big East is quickly becoming family. Currently the Big East is the worst of the BCS automatic qualifiers. The conference has not been represented in the national championship game since Virginia Tech in 2000, and this year could have a team in a BCS game without being ranked in the top 25.

Whether or not the move will be a good one for the Horned Frogs remains to be seen. The money will be greater because of the Big East's basketball television contracts, and the BCS will be easier because of the automatic qualification. But is it the right move in terms of the teams who currently represent the Big East. Only time will tell.

Top Five Badger Football Plays of All-Time: #1 Dayne's Run for the Record

We didn't want to release this last week for the fear of the jynx. Mainly because the final play in our countdown comes from the last time the Badgers won the Big Ten title. A day that is most appropriatly known as the "Dayne Game."

In 1999 the Badgers looked poised to have a shot at repeating as Big Ten Champions. On a warm November Saturday there was excitement in the air. On a day when the fans inside Camp Randall would most likely see history, and perhaps see another title, they witnessed what could be the greatest day in Wisconsin football history. The day that Ron Dayne broke Ricky Williams' college rushing record.

That day seems like ages ago now, but in many ways remains a prominant moment in Wisconsin football history. Eleven years later the Badgers had not touched the Big Ten Championship trophy since that day. Bret Bielema was the Wisconsin head coach rather than the Iowa assistant standing on the other sideline. In a way Saturday's game against Northwestern may not have duplicated what happened on November 8th 1999, but it certainly could not have started without it.

So for our final play in the countdown we give you: Dayne's Run for the Record

Badgers Stop Winless Streak Against Spartans

The last couple of weeks have been tough for Mike Eaves and the Wisconsin men's hockey team. Getting sweeped in consecutive weekends by North Dakota, and Minnesota-Duluth, and three straight overtime games that did not result in a victory. But on Saturday the Badgers finally got over the hump defeating Michigan State 4-1.

Over the past few weeks the Badgers hav either struggled to score goals while playing solid defense, or scored while not playing great defense. Either way the outcome was always the same a loss or a tie. Against the Spartans Wisconsin was able to put both offense and defense together. Starting on the offensive side with Justin Schultz.

The sophomore defenseman led the Badgers with a hat trick against the Spartans, and if you really look at it...he had four goals. The only goal for the Spartans came off of a mistake by Schultz that ended up in the Wisconsin net. Without the Spartans even taking a shot.

A day after his counterpart nearly had a hat trick of his own Schultz recorded his first hat trick of his career. Not to mention only the fifth by a Wisconsin defenseman in program history, but defense was also a key part of the Badger victory against Michigan State.

On Friday night senior goaltender Scott Gudmandson watched from the bench. Saturday night Gudmandson found himself back on the ice for the first time since being benched against Minnesota-Duluth a week earlier. Against the Spartans on Saturday Gudmandson took a big stride in making sure that doesn't happen again.

Giving up only one goal against the Spartans the senior goaltender may have shown his best game of the year. Keeping in mind that the only goal the Spartans scored actually came of an odd carrum from Schultz. Sneeking by Gudmandson to tie the game up at one at the time.

Gudmandson would go on to stop every shot the Spartans would throw at him. Giving him in many ways a shut-out against the Spartans if you look past the "own goal." Not to mention ending the Badger winless streak at six and giving them their first win in what has been a long six game homestand.

Badgers Start Stroger, but Struggle Late

In the first two games of the Old Spice Classic the Wisconsin men's basketball team struggled in the first half. When it came to the championship game against Notre Dame the Badgers struggled more in the second half. Costing them a victory of the Fighting Irish.

After scoring only 19 points in the first half the Badgers were only down by three heading into the break. Because of solid defense Wisconsin was able to hold the Irish to just 22 points in the first half. Then maintain their defensive advantage in the second half.

The Badgers held Notre Dame scoreless for the first four minutes of the second stanza keeping the score tied at 24-24. Led by Jon Leuer and Jordan Taylor the Badgers would run out to a nine point lead half-way thru the second half. Until the Irish would come back.

From the mid-way point the Irhish would outscore the Badgers 24-8 in the final ten minutes. Taking the Badgers out of the game defensively the Irish were able to find ways to score on Wisconsin late when the Badgers when the game mattered.

Another key factor to the game for Wisconsin was fouls and free-throws. The Badgers would make all four free throws they were allowed to shoot. Notre Dame on the other hand missed only five free throws...of the 25 they shot at the free-throw stripe.

In terms of personal fouls the Badgers held the edge 22-8, and saw two starters foul out of the game (Gasser and Taylor). Taking scorers off the floor late in the game, and taking any chance of a comeback away from the Badgers. Resulting in a Badger loss 58-51.

Bielema's First Class Finishes

Four years ago the Wisconsin football program was changing directions. Some felt for the better, and others felt for the worst, but Saturday is when everything finally came to a finale. With Bret Bielema's first recruiting class finishing...with a conference championship.

In Bielema's first year at the helm the man looked like a genius. The Badgers were 11-1 heading to the Capital One Bowl to take on an Arkansas team that could have been in the national championship if it wasn't for a slip up against Florida. The Badgers would defeat the Hogs to go 12-1 in Bielema's first season. The next two years wouldn't be as easy.

Wisconsin would go 9-4 the following season, and lose their bowl game against Tennessee. The next year would be the worst. The Badgers went an abismal 7-6, and many still believe if it wasn't for Cal Poly's Andrew Gardner missing two extra points in the final two scores Bielema could have very well been out of a job.

Quiety through that time the Badgers were getting better. Especially his first recruiting class. Featuring a group of solid offensive linemen (Carimi and Moffit), a potential NFL tight end (Kendricks), and a quarterback that would come out of nowhere to be one of the best in college football (Tolzien). A group that would lead the Badgers to the promised land just two years later.

After 20 wins and only four losses in the next two seasons those recruits had become leaders, and seniors. Saturday was just the end of an era. One that would end with a Big Ten Championship.

The offensive line would be the first group of seniors that would strike for scores on Saturday against Northwestern. This tiem aiding the Badgers to score three touchdowns by sophomore running back Montee Ball. Then it was time for a different senior on the other side of the ball to get in on the action.

Defensive captain and fellow senior Jay Valai got in on the fun in between scores. Not just for telling his mom that he loves her during the "Ask the Badgers" segment on the video screen later in the game. The second Ball touchdown would be setup with a Valai interception, and he wouldn't be the only Badger making big grabs on Saturday against Northwestern.

In the second quarter senior quarterback Scott Tolzien would find fellow senior David Gilreath for his first passing touchdown of the day. One that would be followed by another senior. This time it would be Lance Kenricks.

On a near perfect pass Kendricks would make a diving catch in the endzone. The result would be a 29 yard touchdown that would be the last for Kendricks in Camp Randall. Tolzien wasn't quite done yet.

The senior from Rolling Meadows, Ill. would find pay dirt two more times. Hitting red-shirt junior wide reciever Nick Toon for both of them. Those two touchdowns would move the score to 49-17 heading into halftime, and all but lock-up a share of the Big Ten title.

Wisconsin would add two more offensive touchdowns, and a interception returned for a touchdown by Aaron Henry. Making the score 70-23, and giving the Badgers what had been so far away not too long ago...a Big Ten championship.

In what has been a crazy four years the seniors found a way to finish off their careers with a bang. Finishing on top, and a possible trip to the Rose Bowl. A place where to Badger has been in a decade...

Week 13 Games of the Week Part 2: More of the Left-Overs

Black Friday was a great day for college football with a lot of crazy games. Alabama didn't finish the game letting Auburn keep their national championship dreams alive. Pittsburgh opens to door for a mess in the Big East, and who could have seen Nevada making that amazing comeback! But don't be sad that Friday's over...there's always Saturday. A day with plenty of great games, and plenty of post-Thanksgiving enjoyment. Bust out the left-overs one more time!

Upset Alert!

Michigan State @ Penn State
That's right the upset alert is out, and it will be out early. With an early 11 o'clock start the Spartans will look to do something they've never done. Beat the Nittany Lions in State College as a member of the Big Ten. Not to mention with conference championship implications. This one could make for a great start to a Saturday packed with great college football. Never mind the possibility that Sparty could have a let down in Happy Valley.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
Even though we do have Michigan State on upset alert the Spartans should pull this one out. Unless they come out of the gate like they did against Purdue. The Nittany Lions are ready to pounce in this game, and if the Spartans don't come prepared they will find themselves on the outside looking in. Expect Kirk Cousins and company to have a good game, but not great enough to win convincingly. Michigan State escapes, but not by much, and this could still be a Penn State upset.

The BCS Bubble Burst?

LSU @ Arkansas
Boise State had theirs burst last night, and LSU could be next. Taking on a solid opponent in Arkansas the Tigers will look to keep their hopes of playing a BCS game alive. If not the national championship game if Auburn slips up. Arkansas on the other hand may not be playing for the BCS but they do have a great group of seniors playing their last game in Fayetteville. All of that makes for an upset special, and a possible burst of the BCS bubble.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
The Tigers have found a way to escape all season, and their is most likely one more trick underneath Les Miles' hat. Expect this one to be a wild game, and it could come down to who has the ball last. Which always seems to be LSU. The Tigers will squeak out another one on the road, but if they come out sloppy the Hogs could very well pull the upset. LSU wins another close one...

Tidal Wave of the Coastal Divison

NC State @ Maryland
The Terps lost any chance of playing for an ACC championship after last weeks loss to Florida State, but this week they get to play spoiler. The Wolf Pack on the other hand have found a way to win all season meaning this one should be close. Making for one wild finish to what has been the second best conference race in the country.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
Just like LSU the Wolf Pack seem to find a way to win. Whether that is a late hail mary play against North Carolina or by coming up with a key turnover against Florida State. Expect NC State to find a way to win this one late, but don't be too surprised to see the Terps pull an upset. Still if you're betting the farm it would be wise to take NC State in this one.

Bedlam....Enough Said!

Oklahoma @ Oklahoma State
It's one of the best rivalries in the country. An instate rivalry that splits homes and families, and this year will decide who takes the Big XII South. If Oklahoma State wins the Cowboys will represent the South in the Big XII championship game. If Oklahoma wins...well we'll figure that one out later with all the three way tie scenarios. In what might be the best Bedlam game in years the match-up between the Sooners and Cowboys may be the best game of the day.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
In games this close you have to take the home team. With two teams that seem to be mirror images, and in an instate rivalry picking a winner is almost impossible. But there is one key point to make when it comes to who should win this game...Oklahoma on the road. So far this season the Sooners have been two different teams between the road, and at home. On the road the Sooners are more prone to the loss. Leaving us with the Cowboys who are stellar at home. Stick with the Cowboys, but keep in mind this is a rivalry game and you can throw the records out.

Other Great Saturday Games!

TCU @ New Mexico
This game is why God gave us the remote. (For those of you keeping track at home the remote came on the eighth day.) TCU should dominate the Lobos, but with the BCS implications of TCU's last game of the regular season this one should be at least worth flipping the channel during commercials.

South Carolina @ Clemson
One of the best rivalries in the south that doesn't feature the "big boys". The battle for the state of South Carolina features another rivalry that splits homes and families. Not to mention moments that sometimes make for great entertainment. Definitely worth a second look, and perhaps staying for the whole game.

Florida @ Florida State
If VH1 aired this game it would be called "I Love the 90s." The yearly match-up between the Gators and Seminoles always makes for a great game, and even though this year it lacks the national significance it's still worth a gander.

Badgers (Finally) Survive Overtime Against Michigan

Overtime has not been kind to the Badgers in the past few years, and especially this season. Friday may not have been as kind as the Badgers may have wanted, but it is better than the alternative.

The Badgers have not won an overtime game since 2005. Last weekend the Badgers not only lost in overtime to number one Minnesota-Duluth...they did it twice. On Friday night the Badgers would again find themselves in overtime for the third straight game. This time hoping for a better outcome.

In the final Badger Hockey Showcase Wisconsin started in perhaps the worst possible way. Giving up two goals early in the first period.

Michigan's Luke Moffatt struck first after converting on a turnover behind the Badger net by Wisconsin goaltender Brett Bennett. That made the score 1-0 in the sixth minute, but just two minutes later the Wolverines would strike again.

This time it was a power-play goal by Michigan's Carl Hagelin to make the score 2-0. A score that would soon be answered by the Badgers by their own power-play goal.

Midway thru the first period Justin Schultz converted on a slap shot off of a Craig Smith assist. The Badgers weren't all the way back, but they were closer. Making the score 2-1 heading into the first intermission.

Coming out of the break the Badgers would not take long to knot the game up at two. Striking in 43 seconds Sean Dolan deflected a Jake Gardiner shot into the Michigan net. Making the score 2-2 and getting the Badgers firmly back in the game.

The Wolverines would exchange goals again in the second period. First with a goal by Michigan's Chris Brown. Then with a Badger goal by Jake Gardner. Keeping the game tied at three until Michigan found the back of the net one more time in the second.

Late in the second period Michigan's Louie Caporusso won a face-off clean, and the rest is history. Caporusso would gather the puck, and then stick it in the back of the net. Putting the Wolverines up 4-3 with just one period left to play.

Just like the second period though it would be a Wolverine lead that would be short-lived in the following period. This time in 49 seconds Gardiner found the back of the net for the second time on the night. This time coming off an assist from Mark Zengerle on the Badger power-play.

After another 19 minutes the game would remain tied at four. Sending the game into overtime. The Badgers third straight overtime game, but this time things would be different.

With another five minutes of competitive hockey both teams were unable to find the back of the net. Leaving the game with a 4-4 tie, and giving the Badgers an escape from another heart-breaking overtime loss.

Another Big Second Half Propels Badgers to Victory

For the second consecutive game in the Old Spice Classic the Badgers got off to a slow start. Then bounced back in the second half.

After a slow start on Thanksgiving the Badgers needed a strong second half to defeat Manhattan. On Friday the Badgers needed an even stronger second half to comeback against Boston College and a familiar foe.

Former Cornell coach Steve Donahue had already shown he knew how to defeat the Badgers in the first half. Holding the Badgers to just 26 points, and 39% shooting from the field. At the same time his flock of Eagles dominated the Badgers from behind the three point line shooting 35% while the Badgers only shot 10%. Giving Boston College a slight three point edge heading into the intermission.

Coming out of the intermission the Badgers found their offense for the second consecutive game. Led by Jon Leuer's 18 points the Badgers not only caught Boston College. They started to dominate the game.

Shooting over 50% from the field in the second half the Badgers were able to build a sizable lead over Boston College. Leading at one point by 22 points Wisconsin looked to be cruising to victory. Until the Eagles started to make a comeback.

Even without turning the ball over (Wisconsin only turned the ball over 3 times in the game) the Badgers started to see their lead dwindle. Boston College went on a 15 point run that cut the Badger lead to just seven with a minute left on the clock.

Unfortunately for Boston College that was to little too late. The Badgers turned back to the old bread and butter to salt away the game...free throws. Leuer and Jordan Taylor would make five out of the last six to lock up the 65-55 victory. Setting up a championship match-up with Notre Dame on Sunday.

Badgers on Tryptophan: Badgers Start Slow on Thansgiving

We all know the feeling. It hits us once a year, and always on the same day. Right after dinner. Of course we're talking about that chemical, tryptophan, that makes us sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner. A meal that the Wisconsin men's basketball team obviously had right before taking on Manhattan in the opener of the Old Spice Classic.

To say the Badgers started off slow against Manhattan would be an understatement. In the first half the Badgers were only able to score 17 points. A season low in scoring. Not to mention a season low in shooting percentage.

Shooting just 23% in the opening half the Badgers needed to count on the one thing they have fallen on for years...defense. Holding the Jaspers to just 10 points in the first half gave Wisconsin an advantage heading into the second half. A half in which they would pull away from a pesky Manhattan ball club.

Coming out of halftime the Badgers got rolling. Shooting 50% from the field they were able to pull away from the Jaspers. Outscoring Manhattan by eight points in the second Wisconsin was able to secure the 50-35 victory.

Up next for Wisconsin will be a tough battle with Boston College Friday at 11 A.M. on ESPN.

Week 13 Games of the Week Part 1: Black Friday Madness

Black Friday could be one of the best days of the year for women. Especially if they love to shop. This year Black Friday could be one of the best days of the year for men. For years Thanksgiving has been owned by the NFL, and now it's the NCAA's turn to take over the weekend. With big match-ups around the country on Friday, and Saturday too, the college football landscape will be drastically changed after this weekend. So nestle in the couch and watch some of the best college football of the year, and don't forget the left-overs.

The Backyard Brawl!

West Virginia @ Pittsburgh
The best early game of Black Friday will be the annual meeting between West Virginia and Pittsburgh. A rivalry that seems to define the winner of the Big East every year, and this year will be no different. With a win Pitt will all but lock up a BCS bowl birth. A West Virginia win opens up a Pandora's Box of possible outcomes. Whether or not you think the Big East should be getting a BCS game this year is besides the point. The fact that these two teams always make for great football is the point.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction
The Panthers at times this season have looked flat. Especially on the offensive side of the ball, but expect the offense to wake up for this one. They say that big time players make plays in big time games, and that is exactly what Pitt's Dion Lewis will do on Friday. This season has been a disappointment for the sophomore after rushing for over 1,700 yards last season. Expect Lewis to have a big day against the Mountaineers and help lead the Panthers back to the promised land.

The Iron Bowl!

Auburn @ Alabama
A year ago it was Auburn that was trying to pull the upset at home to end the Crimson Tides national championship hopes. This year the shoe is on the other foot. In a rivalry where there is often more than just pride on the line there is only one team playing for more than just pride. Auburn with a win pretty much punches their ticket to the national championship game. Alabama on the other hand would love nothing more to end that dream in Tuscaloosa and possibly propel themselves into an at-large bid to a BCS game. Definitely one for the ages.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction
Sometimes the best defense is a good offense, and that is exactly how Bama pulls the upset over their rival from Auburn. Following last year's Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram the Crimson Tide will control the clock and keep Cam Newton on the sidelines. Making the Heisman hopeful force the issue, and that's where their defense comes in. A defense that at times has not looked as good as the one we say last year, but a defense that can still make stops. Expect Alabama to win out, but it will still be close.

Roasting Ducks After Thanksgiving?

Arizona @ Oregon
The Wildcats could be the last real threat to the Ducks national championship game hopes, and defeating Arizona will be no easy task for Oregon. The Wildcats pack an offense that can score with the best of them, and the last time we saw Oregon they struggled on the road. In the last home game of the season for the Ducks they will face perhaps one of their hardest tests yet this season. That is if the Arizona that we've seen at times this season shows up...

Boynton's Badgers Prediction
Turkeys aren't safe during Thanksgiving, but the Ducks are. So far this season Oregon is averaging over 60 points a game at home. Add in one of the wildest crowds in the country, and you have what could be a barn burner. The Wildcats at times this season have looked like conference contenders, and pretenders at others. If they want to pull the upset in Eugene they will need to bring the contender, but even that probably won't be enough. Oregon pulls away late.

The Biggest Battle in the Biggest Little City on Earth!

Boise State @ Nevada
They call Reno, Nev. the "Biggest Little City on Earth" and come Saturday they will host perhaps the biggest game in Nevada history. The last ten years have not been kind for the Wolf Pack when it comes to Boise State, but this year they may have a team that can hang. With quarterback Collin Kaepernick and a solid offense the Pack can certainly score with the Broncos, but can they defend. Boise State would love nothing more than to destroy Nevada and keep their national title hopes alive. If you love scoring than stay up late for this one....

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
Unfortunately for the city of Reno, Nev. the game they have been waiting months for won't be one for the record books. While both teams may pack solid offense, Nevada has been prone to giving up points. And Boise State will exploit that defense to put serious points on the board. The Broncos have a defense that will limit the Nevada offense, and that will be the difference in the game with the Wolf Pack being unable to get Boise State's offense off the field. Boise State wins in a wild one in Reno.

Fouls and Rebounds Hurt Lady Badgers

The intra-state rivalry between Marquette and Wisconsin may take on a more significant meaning when it's the men's team, but the battle between the two women's squads is also key. And a key to Marquette's 66-52 victory over Wisconsin was fouls and rebounds.

If you look at just the stat line it doesn't take much to figure out how the Golden Eagles downed the Badgers. It was at the free throw strip that the ladies from Marquette won the game.

Out-shooting, and out-scoring the lady Badgers almost three to one. Wisconsin was called for 22 fouls in Wednesday night's meeting. Sending Marquette to the line 23 times; which they turned into 13 points. In a game with a margin of twelve points that is quite the margin. Especially with the Lady Badgers only making two out of the eight attempts they were granted on the night.

Rebounds also played a key part of the final score in many ways. Marquette was able to out-rebound the Badgers on the boards at a rate of almost two to one. With 42 rebounds on the night the Golden Eagles were able to limit the Lady Badgers second chance opportunities on a night when shooting was at a premium.

A surprising little fact from Wednesday night's game is that the Badgers actually outscored the Golden Eagles. Even with the Golden Eagles out-rebounding the Badgers at a high rate.

Led by senior Tara Steinbauer's team high eleven points the Lady Badgers were able to score 32 points in the paint. Ten points higher than the Golden Eagles, and a statistic that the Lady Badgers were able to dominate. Just not enough to win the game.

Another reason for the Badgers domination in the paint was the play of freshman Taylor Wurtz who recorded her first double-double against Marquette. Combined with ten points the freshman guard was able to take down ten rebounds. But that wasn't the only high point of the game for the Badgers.

Despite the final score the Lady Badgers were able to make a game of it late. Coming all the way back from a 17 point deficit the Badgers were tied the game in the second half. The Badgers would stay withing eight points, but would never get any closer after that. The Golden Eagles would own the last 14 minutes of the game, and go on to win the game 66-52

Wisconsin Cross Country Takes Third

A little known fact when it comes to Wisconsin athletics is some of their lesser known teams. Especially ones that make noise at the national level, and once again the men's cross country team did just that this season.

Coming into the national championships the Badgers had already made their mark as one of the best in the country. First by winning their "" conference title in October, and then by winning their eighth straight regional title. That only left a quality performance at the national championships to produce another quality season.

Heading into the national championships the Badgers had reached the podium for the six of the last eight years. With a solid group of young runners the Badgers would look to make it seven in eight with a strong showing in Terre Haute, Ind.

Things looked promising for the Badgers early on in the race. Senior Landon Peacock, Sophomores Mohammed Ahmed and Maverick Darling, as well as junior Elliot Krause were all contending with the top twenty. Then Krause started to falter.

Struggling at the end of the 10k race Krause started to dwindle. Falling and stumbling the junior started to look as if he was out of gas. The reason for the collapse...he was out of gas.

Krause would fall all the way to the middle of the pack. From a promising start and a shot at All-American honors. Not to mention leaving the Badgers with a dwindling chance of making the podium again.

Something they would do though. Because of the strong finishes by Ahmed, Darling, and Peacock the Badgers were able to edge top ranked Stanford for third. While still being behind eventual champion Oklahoma State by over 200 points, but even with a strong finish by Krause a national title still may have been without hope.

Regardless of the finish the Badgers have a lot returning next season. With only Peacock departing the Badgers will return two All-Americans (Ahmed and Darling) along with a strong junior in Krause. As well as sophomore Reed Connor, and junior Phil Thomas who both finished in scoring position for the Badgers in the national meet.

On a day that left some questions of what could have been the Badgers will look forward to the future. With four runners returning and a team that recorded three top 20 runners for just the seventh time in school history.

Clay Will Play, but How Much?

Even though the Badgers have been impressive in their last two wins there has been one key figure missing from the offense. Their starting running back John Clay.

The red-shirt junior has missed the last two games with a knee injury that occurred during the Purdue game. In his absence the Wisconsin offense has continued to roll on the backs of Montee Ball and James White. As well as the offensive line.

There has been much speculation about the injury to Clay over that time, but every Saturday the questions have been answered. By him wearing a jacket rather than a jersey.

This week the former Big Ten offensive player of the year returned to full practice and appears to be a go for this weekends game against Northwestern. At least on the outside he looks like he's ready to go.

Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema has stated that Clay will play, but in a limited fashion. Raising the question of how many snaps will Clay be in for, and how many carries will the junior have.

Currently Clay has 929 yards leaving him just 71 yards short of the 1,000 yard mark. A mark that Clay could reach against Northwestern if he has the carries. But the theory is that Clay most likely won't reach the mark with limited carries this weekend. Expect Clay to reach that mark in the bowl game in January.

Week 12 Poll: Close But Not Close Enough

Last weekend was a close call for many teams around the country, but in the end the favorites pulled out the victory. With three of the top four sitting on the sidelines there wasn't much in the way upset alerts that affect the national championship directly. This weekend on the other hand could make for a great poll next week. But check out this week's anyways...

Who's Up!

Virginia Tech
The Hokies have been on the up-kick since losing their first two games of the season. Now the Hokies are starting to look like the team that we thought they could be coming into the season. While the national championship was lost in September, the ACC championship was not lost by any means. The Hokies remain undefeated, and have locked up a spot in the ACC championship game with a win over Miami this past weekend. While the score may not show it, the win was impressive in many ways. Not only was Virginia Tech able to win a close one on the road, but they were able to do it in impressive fashion.

Who's Down

Nebraska
The Cornhuskers have fallen a long ways from national championship contention in recent weeks. The loss to Texas hurt, and the loss to Texas A&M hurts even more. Saturday's loss to the Aggies has shown some offensive flaws that weren't there early in the season. Not to mention an offense that seems to be struggling scoring points. At the same time the rest of the teams seem to be getting better with every week, but the Cornhuskers appear to be on the downslope. Even though Nebraska has a shot at the national title it doesn't look like the Huskers are the best in the conference. Give that one to Oklahoma State.

Who's Out!

USC
If you asked Laine Kiffin if he wanted the job what would he say now? That could be a great question to ask him. In his first season as head coach, Kiffin has watched his Trojans receive sanctions from the NCAA, and has suffered some heart breaking losses. Unfortunately Saturday's loss to Oregon State wasn't a last second hear-breaker...it was a whoopin'. The Trojans at times this season have looked impressive, but this past weekend they looked like a team with nothing left to play for, and that's why they are out of our poll.

Who's In!

Florida State
Talk about an up and down season in Tallahasse. In a conference that could be just as bad as the Big East, if you take out Virginia Tech, the Seminoles at times this season have looked great, and at others like mediocrity. While in a competitive race in their division the Seminoles remain alive after their outstanding victory over Maryland. Florida State may not make a ACC championship game this year, but last Saturday they finally got the one thing they needed....a signature win. Resulting in their return to the top 25.

The Poll

1. Oregon
2. Auburn
3. Boise State
4. TCU
5. Wisconsin
6. Stanford
7. Ohio State
8. Oklahoma State
9. LSU
10. Virginia Tech
11. Alabama
12. Michigan State
13. Arkansas
14. Oklahoma
15. Nebraska
16. Nevada
17. Texas A&M
18. South Carolina
19. Missouri
20. NC State
21. Northern Illinois
22. Mississippi State
23. Utah
24. Florida State
25. Iowa

Kendricks a Finalist for Mackey Award

The history of Wisconsin tight ends has been well documented in recent years. With players like Garrett Graham, Travis Beckum, and Owen Daniels playing at the next level. But no Badger tight end has every won the Mackey Award which is given to the nations best tight end. A streak that could come to an end this season.

Monday Wisconsin tight end Lance Kendricks was announced as one of the three finalists for the award. Considered to be one of the best tight ends to ever come out of Wisconsin Kendricks has racked up 547 receiving yards, and four touchdowns this season.

Kendricks' performance has been limited in recent weeks due to injury, but on Saturday the senior tight end became just the 23rd player in Wisconsin history to gain over 1,000 yards through the air in a career.

Between the three finalists Kendricks also holds the edge in yards per catch this season. With an average of 16.8 Kendricks is ahead of fellow finalists Michael Egnew of Missouri, and D.J. Williams of Arkansas in the yards per catch category, and tied with all three with four touchdowns.

The finalists were determined by ballot, and the winner of the award will be announced at the Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show. Which will air on December 9th on ESPNU.

My Take: Arguments For or Against the Big Ten Contenders

This year's Big Ten race is by far one of the craziest we've seen in quite some time. Two teams that have met head-to-head. Two teams that have not seen each other this season. Then add in a potential BCS tie breaker, and you have perhaps the hardest Big Ten championship to decide in decades. So why not make the discussion a little easier with the arguments for and against all three of the Big Ten contenders.

Michigan State

For
The Spartans are having perhaps their best season in school history. A 10-1 record, and a solid victory over Wisconsin early in the season. Not to mention thrilling victories over Notre Dame and on the road at Northwestern. Michigan State has proven week in and week out that they find a way to win football games. So the does Michigan State prove the theory that "good teams find a way to win?"

Against
Sparty may be having a great season, but we do have to look at who this season has been played against. The win over Notre Dame was exciting, but how good are the Fighting Irish? The answer to that question is not really that good. Add in the win against Wisconsin and you have perhaps a marquee win this season, but the win came over a group of Badgers that were not healthy, and were struggling at the time. So does Michigan State deserve the Big Ten title...if it's between Wisconsin and Michigan State they probably do because they beat the Badgers in East Lansing. Unfortunately this race isn't between just the Badgers and Spartans, and not playing Ohio State may come back to hurt the Spartans in the end.

Ohio State

For
The Buckeyes have been impressive again this season, and without a hiccup at Camp Randall they would already have at least a share of the title locked up. If not a shot at the national championship in line as well. Ohio State is a talented football team, and deserves everything they have achieved this season. Not to mention a key home win against Miami (FL) earlier this season is perhaps the best non-conference win of any of the Big Ten championship contenders.

Against
Brutus has looked impressive this season, but the fact remains that they lost to Wisconsin. Despite what Terrell Pryor may say the fact is that they lost that game, and going down 21-0 to start the game doesn't help any argument that they are better than the Badgers. Add in the fact that they do not play against Michigan State, and you have a major problem for the Buckeyes. Without a game against the Spartans the Buckeyes conference schedule may not be as tough as Wisconsin's.

Wisconsin

For
The Badgers have continuously gotten better this season, and wins over Ohio State and Iowa in consecutive weeks this season are impressive to say the least. Wisconsin right now look like a team that could play with anybody in the country, and perhaps would beat the Spartans if they met again this year. The win over Ohio State eliminates any argument that the Badgers are better than the Buckeyes, and should give them the Big Ten championship.

Against
But the loss to the Spartans is the complicating factor in the whole deal. If Wisconsin had beaten Michigan State this argument would be useless. Unfortunately for Badger fans that is not the case. Add in the soft non-conference schedule and you've got one big pickle with the BCS. Another important key factor to keep in mind as well is that even though the Badgers may look like the better team right now when it comes to Wisconsin-Michigan State, it is important to remember that games in September count the same in the loss column. Unfortunately for Wisconsin that game put a notch in the loss column.

The Verdict

This decision is hard to make, but if we've learned anything over the past few years it is that how you finish is more an important than how you start. The Buckeyes started off great, and still look great making them one of the two teams we would choose to be in a final argument. The Badgers could also be put in that argument because of how they have played since defeating Ohio State at Camp Randall. Michigan State on the other hand has looked at times like an average football team. Just look at last Saturday's match-up against the "Patch-Work" Purdue Boilermakers.

While not all three of these teams have played each other we can look at the "third grader" point of view to sort this all out. Wisconsin and Ohio State defeated Iowa at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. The Spartans on the other hand were taken to the woodshed against the Hawkeyes. That knocks out Michigan State.

That leaves us with just Ohio State and Wisconsin. Unfortunately for Buckeye fans they did play each other, and the Badgers handled Ohio State. Which leaves us with just one team standing on top of the hill...the Badgers. But keep in mind this all goes for nothing if just one of these teams loses this weekend....

Vide of the Week: Teach Me How to Bucky

Every once and a while there are songs that define a generation. Classics that were made by the Beatles, or perhaps even the Rolling Stones. Now we have a song that defines this generation. A song that defines the era that we live in.

OK, perhaps that was a bit too much, but this week's video is perhaps the greatest video about the University of Wisconsin that has ever been shown in public. A video that shows you what it's like to be a Badger, but does it in a modern kind of way. Well maybe we're still going too far. Just watch and find out for yourself.

So for this week's Video of the Week: "Teach Me How to Bucky"

Jayhawks Defeat Lady Badgers in Overtime

Despite winning two of their first three games of the season their was something missing on the court for the Lady Badgers. Or should we say someone.

Mainly senior guard and leading scorer Alyssa Karel who missed the first three games due to a knee injury. On Sunday Karel was back, and the timing could not have been better with a dangerous Kansas team coming to the Kohl Center.

Karel struck quickly in her return with six of Wisconsin's first nine points from the field. Not to mention six of her game high 27 points. Propelling the Lady Badgers to an early 26-19 lead over the Lady Jayhawks. A lead that would be erased later in the first half.

Kansas would run off 11 unanswered points that would stretch their lead to 30-26 with just over a minute left until halftime. Junior forward Anya Kovington would end the Jayhawk run with a jumper, and the Badgers would rally to lead Kansas 31-30 at halftime.

The Jayhawks would run out to the largest lead of the game at 57-46 midway through the second half, but the Lady Badgers would again answer the call.

Wisconsin would chip away at the Kansas lead until with 1:01 left in the game when redshirt senior Emily Neal nailed a three pointer. Then connected on a free throw for the elusive four point play giving the Badgers a 77-75 lead.

The ladies from Lawrence, Kan. would make two late free throws to tie the game up at the end of regulation pushing the game to overtime. When the Lady Jayhawks would pull away from the Badgers. Outscoring the Badgers 16-9 in the extra session Kansas would go on to win 93-86 in the inaugural game of the Big Ten/Big XII Women's Basketball Challenge.

What Happens in Vegas...Hopefully Stays in Vegas

After the Badgers cruised for two early victories over Prairie View A&M, and North Dakota they would travel to the desert for their first test of the season. A test that the Badgers would not pass.

In an electric environment at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nev. the Badgers would struggle with fouls, and defense.

Early fouls would be the first problem of the night for the Badgers. With seniors John Leuer, and Keaton Nankivil taking two early fouls the Badgers were forced to go small. Besides losing size the Badgers also lost their leading scorer in Leuer for most of the first half.

Wisconsin would count on junior guard Jordan Taylor for a majority of the offense in the first half. Scoring 16 of his 19 points in the first half Taylor was able to keep the Badgers in the game while Leuer and Nankivil sat on the bench with foul trouble.

Heading into the break UNLV led the slimmest of margins by the score of 34-33. In the second half the game would turn into a three point shooting contest for the Running Rebels, and a game that went back and forth throughout.

Perimeter defense would prove to be one of the problems that would prevent Bucky from winning in the desert. Coming into the match-up the Running Rebels had struggled from behind the arch. Something they had no problem with against the Badgers.

UNLV who had been shooting just 28% in terms of three pointers in their first two games shot an impressive 50% from behind the arch. Resulting in 27 or UNLV's 68 points on the night.

Despite the foul trouble, and defensive problems the Badgers were in the game late. Even having a shot at winning the game with just seconds on the clock. After a missed John Leuer jumper the Running Rebels and Badgers were unable to recover the rebound. Resulting in another Wisconsin inbounds play.

After being unable to get the ball inbounds sophomore Mike Bruesewitz used Wisconsin's last timeout. Coming out of the time out Bruesewitz tried to get the ball to Leuer in the low post, but put the ball on the floor instead of in the air. The Badgers turned the ball over, and were unable to get the shot off.

Following two made free throws by UNLV's Justin Hawkins the Badgers had one more shot. But the long three pointer by Jordan Taylor that would have tied the game bounced off the rim, and the Badgers would lose 68-65. Giving Wisconsin their first loss of the season in Sin City.

Badgers Go Down in Overtime for Second Consecutive Night

Losing late in overtime on Friday could have been devastating for the Wisconsin men's hockey team. Yet the Badgers would come out on Saturday and compete against top ranked Minnesota-Duluth on Saturday until finding themselves in overtime again.

Coming off of an offensive scoring spree on Friday both the Badgers and Bulldogs would struggle to find goals early. Neither team would score in the first period, but the second period would be a different story.

The Bulldogs would strike first in the second period after just over a minute. Dylan Olsen would take a shot from the point. A shot that would be deflected by Kyle Schmidt for the first goal of the night giving Minnesota the 1-0 lead. A deficit the Badgers would erase later in the period.

Immediately after a Wisconsin power play junior defenseman Jake Gardner would fire a shot at the Bulldog net. That shot would not find the netting, but the rebound would be put in by freshman Michael Mersch. Knotting the game up at one a piece heading into the third period.

In the third and final period it would be the Badger power-play unit that would make a dent in the scoreboard. Just not for the Badgers. After a turnover at the Minnesota-Duluth blue line, Mike Connelly struck with a short-handed goal. Giving the Bulldogs a 2-1 lead.

Later in the third it would be the Badger power-play that would find the back of the net. This time for Wisconsin. From behind the net Mark Zengerle would find Jordy Murray who would fire a wrister in the net. Giving Murray his 10th goal of the season, and more importantly moving the game to a 2-2 tie. Resulting in overtime for the second consecutive night.

After just one minute in overtime the Bulldogs capitalized on a 3-2 rush too win the game. Jack Connelly would cash in the rebound from a Mike Connelly shot. Giving the Bulldogs a win in overtime for the second consecutive night.

Badgers Get Tripped Up in Overtime...Literally

A week ago the Badgers were licking their wounds after taking a beating at the hands of WCHA favorite North Dakota. This week would not be any easier. If not harder with the number one Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs coming to the Kohl Center. Then add in two tough overtime losses, and you have one tough weekend to be a Badger.

Friday night the Bulldogs would strike first in the opening period, but the Badgers would strike often. Following a Bulldog goal by Mike Siedel the Badgers would answer with three of their own.

First it would be Wisconsin captain Sean Dollan capitalizing off of an assist by Justin Schultz to tie the game at one. Tyler Barnes would break that tie for the Badgers off of a face off in the Minnesota-Duluth zone making the score 2-1 in favor of Wisconsin. Then just before the intermission Craig Smith punched one in off of a Jordy Murray assist. Giving the Badgers a 3-1 lead at the first intermission.

Coming into the second period everything seemed to be going right for the Badgers against the top ranked Bulldogs. Wisconsin had rallied to take a two goal lead, and appeared to have all the momentum heading back on the ice for the second. Momentum that would soon belong to the Bulldogs.

In the second period Minnesota-Duluth would score four unanswered goals that would stretch the Bulldogs out to a 5-3 lead. Three of the goals would come against senior goaltender Scott Gudmandson before he would be pulled from the game. His replacement Brett Bennett would not have an easier task. Giving up a goal of his own on the first shot by Minnesota-Duluth.

Jordy Murray would strike right before the end of the period getting the Badgers a little closer before the third period. Then late in the third period after Wisconsin head coach Mike Eaves pulled his goaltender the Badgers struck with just 44 seconds left on the clock. John Ramage would find Craig Smith for the shot. That would be deflected by Tyler Barnes for his second goal of the night. Moving the game to a five minute overtime. Something that has not been kind to the Badgers.

Wisconsin has not won an overtime game since 2005, and have already lost one in the extra time this season.

Late in overtime it was beginning to look as if the Badgers would not get the monkey off their back in terms of winning an overtime. Instead Wisconsin would lose as a result of a controversial no call late in overtime.

With just seconds left a Wisconsin defenseman was tripped by Minnesota-Duluth's Jack Connelly resulting in a turnover in the Badgers' defensive zone. Travis Oleksuk would take the loose puck and sneak it by Bennett resulting the game winning goal.

The referees would review the play, but could not reverse the goal. Despite the missed tripping call, and the play possibly being offsides as well. The Badgers would lose 6-5.

Hail to the Badgers! Bucky Rolls Wolverines 48-28

Only once in the history of Wisconsin football have the Badgers won in Ann Arbor. Well at least until Saturday when the Badgers defeated the Wolverines in the Big House for the first time since 1994.

The Badgers started off strong in the first half with an attack on the ground and through the air. But Wisconsin did the most damage with the running game against Michigan.

On the first touchdown drive of the game Wisconsin ran the ball nine times. The Badgers racked up 73 yards on the ground on that drive including a one yard touchdown run by Montee Ball. The first of four for the sophomore running back on Saturday.

Wisconsin would only lead 7-0 after the first quarter, but just like the Indiana game it would be the second quarter when they would do the most damage. Starting with a 72 yard drive that would result in a Philip Welch field goal. A drive that would be the direct result of Wisconsin quarterback Scott Tolzien's arm.

Following four running plays Tolzien was able to show off his arm with four consecutive passing plays. All completions that would move the Badgers to the Michigan seven yard line. After a penalty Tolzien would complete two more passes to get the Badgers to the Michigan five and set up the Welch field goal.

Unnoticed on Saturday in terms of offense was the efficiency of Tolzien in the passing game. The senior quarterback threw for 201 yards on 14 of 15 passing. The only incompletion was actually an interception thrown by Tolzien late in the second quarter.

Following the field goal the Badger running backs would take over the scoring the rest of the half. First with a 27 yard touchdown run by Montee Ball that would move the score to 17-0. Then with under two minutes to go in the half freshman James White broke one for 61 yards that would make it 24-0 going into the half.

At the half the memories of two years ago started to creep into the minds of the commentators who were covering the game. Memories of a Badger loss after blowing a 19-0 halftime lead in the Big House, and after the two consecutive touchdowns those fears started to look like reality. That is until the Badgers responded to the Michigan offense with another touchdown.

After a fumble by senior wide receiver Isaac Ancderson the Badgers turned back the bread and butter. Rushing the ball for 26 consecutive plays, including another long touchdown run by James White, the Badgers were able to regain control of the game.

Control that the Badger defense needed against a potent Michigan offense. In the third quarter the Wolverines started to click on the offensive side of the ball. Especially with quarterback Denard Robinson.

The sophomore quarterback started to hit his passes, and started to find his legs in the third quarter. Connecting with wide receiver Darryl Stronum for the first touchdown, and then running for two more Robinson started to get the Wolverines back in the game. Until the Badger defense found a way to silence them.

In the fourth quarter the game was starting to find a back and forth rhythm in terms of scoring. Michigan would score, and the Wisconsin would answer. That is until the Badgers created a key turnover in the early moments of the quarter.

On a Robinson pass junior defensive end J.J. Watt was not only to block the pass, but also able to intercept it. The turnover would turn into another Welch field goal that would take the Badger lead to twenty points, and would in many ways lock up the victory for the Badgers.

Michigan would strike on more time for a touchdown, but it would be to little too late. Wisconsin would answer with another touchdown by Montee Ball, and would go on to win 48-28. Defeating the Wolverines for the first time at Michigan Stadium for the first since 1994, and taking a firm hold onto the Big Ten championship reigns.

Week 12: Games of the Week

It may not be rivalry weekend quite yet, but this weekends games have all the feel of a weekend packed with games between schools that know each other inside and out. Some may say that's just another weekend in college football, but this one has all the makings of a rivalry. Teams that don't like each other. Games that will decide conference championships, and perhaps the national championship picture as well.

Friday Night Football!

Fresno State @ Boise State
Talk about two teams with a lot of history. Early in the decade it was Fresno that could contend for a national title in the WAC. Now it's Boise's turn to take a shot at the big game. Add in conference championship, and BCS implications and you have a game with all the flash. Even in the WAC Conference on a Friday night.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
You have to like the Broncos to prevail in this one. With one of the nations best rushing defense Boise State should have no problem taking down the Bulldogs. Add in the fact that the game is going to be played on the blue turf and this should be a lock for Boise. Even though Fresno State only lost by a point to Nevada last weekend the Bulldogs will be no match for Boise State. The Broncos win a tough one, but the big battle will be in Reno next Friday. Stay tuned for that one.

Showdown in the Big House!

Wisconsin @ Michigan
The Badgers have not won at Michigan since 1994, and the Wolverines have struggled against the Badgers in recent years. If you don't count the 19-0 comeback in 2008 that is. Regardless of the history between the two this one has all the makings of a classic. Wisconsin's all around offense against a Michigan defense that has struggled at times, but looked better last week. (All be it against Purdue.) Add in a playmaker like Michigan's Denard Robinson, and a powerful offense and you've got one for the ages. Sure to be the best of the early games. Set the alarm clock....

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
Defense wins championships, and the Badgers have the better defense of the two. This one will most likely be a battle between two good offenses, and the one that makes the fewest mistakes will prevail. Michigan has been turnover happy at times this season, and the Badgers have been creating more turnovers as of late. If Michigan can hold onto the ball, and keep Wisconsin's offense on the sideline they stand a shot, but don't count on it with that defense. Especially against a ball control offense like Wisconsin.

Best Big Ten Battle!

Ohio State @ Iowa
If you looked at the schedule before the season started you would have thought this one may determine the Big Ten champion, and perhaps a spot in the BCS National Championship. Well that's why they play the games. Iowa is reeling from a stunning loss against Northwestern, and Ohio State is looking to stay alive in the Big Ten chase. A game that pits two solid defenses, and two offenses that at times look like one of the best in the country should make for a classic.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
The Hawkeyes have not looked like the team that we thought they were going to be this season. At least at times. On the other hand they do respond from their losses. After losing to Arizona they returned home to stomp Ball State. Then after losing to Wisconsin they destroyed Michigan State at home. But this week will not be a repeat of those performances. The Buckeyes pack a better defense, and a better offense than the rest of the competition. Not to mention a team that shouldn't be bothered by playing in Kinnick Stadium. Buckeyes win this one, but it will be closer than some may lead you to believe.

Grits, and Football!

Arkansas @ Mississippi State
This one may not mean much in terms of the BCS or the SEC championship, but it should be entertaining to say the least. Arkansas packs an offense that can rival anyone in the country, and a defense that can dominate at times. Mississippi State on the other hand has improved throughout the season, and even challenged Auburn at one time. Add in the fact that this one is in Starksville, and you've got a game that is as good as southern home cookin'.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
The veteran leadership of the Hogs wins out in this one. Arkansas at times this season has looked like a complete team. Just ask South Carolina to back that fact up. The defense is solid, and the offense is dominant. Mississippi State may be improving, but they aren't there yet. The offense is not well rounded, and that will hurt them against Arkansas. In order to hang with the Hogs they need to have an offense that can score. Even with a great defense. Arkansas wins this one, but they pull it out late on the arm of Ryan Mallett.

The ACC Atlantic Mess!

Florida State @ Maryland
If you follow the ACC you know how much of a mess the Atlantic division is. Three teams tied at the top, and one tie breaker already decided. At least until this game is over. A Florida State win will propel them right to the top of the Atlantic, and perhaps bump them to the conference championship game. A Maryland win puts them in control with a game against NC State the following week. This one will either make or break someones season, and move someone else closer to Charlotte.

Boynton's Badgers Prediction:
In terms of offenses these two seem pretty much even. The defenses will be the key in this one. (Seems to be a pattern this weekend, huh?) If you just look at the numbers you would think that the Seminoles would have the better defense, and thus will be the ones that prevail in this one. Right? Wrong. Turnovers will be the key in this game, and the Terps are great at creating them. So far this season Maryland has forced 21 turnovers while only giving up the ball eight times. That's a whopping +13 in turnover margin. Against a quarterback like Chris Ponder who has thrown seven this year, and is prone to making mistakes at inopportune times will be the difference. Maryland wins and takes control of the ACC Atlantic.

Other Great Games!

Nebraska @ Texas A&M
Bo Polini is in a bit of trouble for picking on the "12th man" which is not a wise decision before paying "him"(or her) a visit. This one could be a shoot out but Nebraska should win. All though everybody thought that about Oklahoma's trip to College Station too....

Oklahoma @ Baylor
The Bears at one time were the surprise team of the season. Until recently that is. This matchup features two teams that at one time had a dream season going, and now have nothing going. Still a great match-up, and one that could have the Bears beating Oklahoma for the first time ever. Stick with history and the Sooners though.

San Jose State @ Hawaii
A game that only matters in Madison, but could be a late one worth staying awake for. (Or sober depending on how you spend your Saturday nights.) The Spartans have had a hard season to say the least. Having only a record of 1-9, and losing two close games in recent weeks. The Spartans need a victory, and with the BCS becoming more and more a factor in Wisconsin's Rose Bowl hopes a win by San Jose State can only help the Badgers. Not much but it would help.