Wisconsin vs. Michigan: Badgers’ offense stumbles in 14-7 loss

Wisconsin’s defense contained a highly potent Michigan offense for three-and-a-half quarters, but one play ultimately decided the outcome of Saturday’s top ten match-up.

Quarterback Wilton Speight found wide receiver Amara Darboh for the eventual game-winning 46-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter in No. 4 Michigan’s 14-7 win in Ann Arbor.

Michigan’s (5-0) defense completely overwhelmed the Wisconsin (4-1) offense, holding them to only 159 total yards and 4-of-15 on third downs. The running game could not get on track against an impressive front seven, only averaging 2.5 yards per carry. Redshirt freshman quarterback Alex Hornibrook, after an impressive starting debut against Michigan State a week ago, did not fare well — completing nine of 25 passes for 88 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions.

The Badgers fought tooth and nail with the Wolverines’ offense all game, holding an offense that averaged nearly 230 yards rushing and 240 passing to just 349 total yards. Michigan only converted 3-of-15 third downs, and defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox’s squad recorded four sacks and six tackles for loss.

After Michigan drove 77 yards for their first touchdown on their second offensive series, Wisconsin locked down until the long touchdown reception by Darboh. Three linebackers, Jack Cichy, T.J. Watt and T.J. Edwards recorded double-digit tackles in the effort with 12, 11 and 11, respectively.

UW has a bye next week, then takes on No. 2 Ohio State under the lights of Camp Randall Stadium on Oct. 15.