Purdue vs. Wisconsin
Two straight weeks the Wisconsin Badgers have mounted a big fourth quarter comeback, only to lose the game in the final minute. Wisconsin was squarely in the national title hunt just a couple weeks ago, but now they are fighting for their lives in the Big Ten.
Camp Randall Stadium
Saturday November 5, 3:30 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from BetOnline
Moneyline: Off
College Football Spread: Wisconsin -25.5 (-110) Purdue +25.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 57
Will the Badgers take out their frustration on the Boilermakers from Purdue or will they have another tough weekend?
Purdue is 4-4 overall, and they are 2-2 in the Big Ten. The Boilermakers need a couple more wins to become bowl eligible, but they are going to have to pull off an upset to get to that six win mark. Caleb TerBush has established himself as Purdue’s signal caller as the season has moved along. TerBush isn’t a quarterback that will wow you with a big arm or amazing speed, but he does a solid job and gives his team a chance to win. Purdue is primarily a running team. They rely on Ralph Bolden and Akeem Shavers to most of the heavy lifting. This is an offense that averages 27 points per game.
The Boilermakers defense definitely misses Ryan Kerrigan. Kerrigan was the Big Ten’s best pass rusher, and the team badly misses his presence. The Boilermakers have just 11 sacks so far this season. Ricardo Allen leads a very talented secondary, but the front seven has struggled through most of this season. Purdue is allowing 170 yards per game on the ground this season.
Wisconsin has had two heartbreaking losses in a row, and it will be interesting to see how they respond this week. Make no mistake about it; this is still a very good football team that is capable of beating anyone in the nation. Can Bret Bielema help this team get back on track and finish the season strong? [soliloquy id=”82219″]
Russell Wilson has been magnificent for Wisconsin in his first year with the program. Wilson has shown his poise in the pocket, as well as his ability to scramble when needed. He has completed 71% of his passes. He also has 19 touchdowns and just three interceptions. Montee Ball has gotten the majority of the carries in the backfield because of his amazing play of late. Ball already has 18 rushing touchdowns and three receiving touchdowns this season. He is averaging six yards per carry. Wisconsin’s offense is built around their solid offensive line. The Badgers are averaging 45 points per game this year.
Wisconsin’s defense was a bit of a question heading into the season, but they have been very good. The Badgers rank ninth in the nation in points allowed per game. Opponents are scoring just 16 points per game against this unit. The rushing defense was beaten by Ohio State’s offensive line last week. Ohio State finished with 268 yards on the ground. The secondary has been excellent all year.
Wisconsin is the much better team here, and they should be very motivated in this spot. Purdue was beaten badly by Michigan last week, and I really don’t the Boilermakers can stop the Badgers running game.
Free College Football Pick: Wisconsin -25.5
Score Prediction: Wisconsin 45 Purdue 10
