Badger Bits: Thursday Linkage

Devin Smith's family members knew he'd be playing in the Rose Bowl someday, even though he didn't believe them.

Everyone involved agrees that defensive coordinator Dave Doeren staying to coach the Badgers in the Rose Bowl is the right move.

The Badger players each get to choose their own bowl game gifts. Some will subsequently give their gift to a family member.

Senior guard Brett Valentyn understands his role as a walk-on, and he's now getting playing time in meaningful situations.

Andrea Adelson of ESPN.com talks with John Clay about the Badgers going back to the Rose Bowl.

Check out the latest issue of Varsity, the new official online magazine of Wisconsin Athletics.

The Wisconsin women's basketball team escapes Laramie, Wyoming with an overtime victory over the Cowgirls.

Jay Valai is an unheralded leader for the Wisconsin defense, and this article is a good summation of his career at Wisconsin.

With Gabe Carimi and John Moffitt about to end their careers in Madison, Peter Konz will need to take a leadership role on the offensive line next year.

Head coach Bret Bielema is a finalist for the Bear Bryant Award, given annually to the best head coach in the nation. Bielema was last a finalist in 2006.

What's up with TCU Football? The latest updates from Fort Worth can be found here.

Two weeks until Wisconsin invades Pasadena, folks!