Wisconsin Badgers Preview: Game 9 at Northwestern Wildcats

WISCONSIN -- After a hard-fought victory in which the No. 8 Badgers handed Nebraska its first defeat of the year, Wisconsin travels to Ryan Field in Evanston, Illinois to battle a resurgent Northwestern team.

As it has done all season, the Badgers’ defense came up big against Nebraska, holding the Cornhuskers to only 17 points and 305 total yards while forcing two turnovers. Nebraska was the fifth top 10 opponent the Badgers have squared off with this season. Wisconsin has emerged from that fray with a 3-2 record, which is admirable.

The Badgers weren’t able to muster much of a passing game Saturday as quarterbacks Alex Hornibrook (10 of 116, 71 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception) and Bart Houston (4 for 7, 43 yards, 1 interception) combined to struggle. Coach Paul Chryst wanted to give both quarterbacks a chance to play, but neither was able to spark the offense. Wisconsin did receive solid contributions from running backs Dare Ogunbowale (11 carries, 120 yards, 1 touchdown) and Corey Clement (19 carries, 82 yards), who figure to enjoy big games against a suspect Northwestern defense.

Kickoff time: 11 a.m.. CT
TV and radio: ESPN, Badger Radio Network
Point spread: Wisconsin is favored by 5.5, according to scores and odds.
Tickets: Tickets are available at the Northwestern football website.

--------

Photo: Tim Moran / Patch.com