Bucky's 5th Quarter - Week 10: Wisconsin 28, Iowa 9Welcome to the unofficial online tavern of the Wisconsin Badgers. Please seat yourself.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47803/buckys-fave.png2013-11-05T10:50:13-06:00http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/rss/stream/48012292013-11-05T10:50:13-06:002013-11-05T10:50:13-06:00Week 10 defense review: Trotter, Muldoon lead UW
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<figcaption>Matthew Holst</figcaption>
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<p>A game-time decision not to play Chris Borland didn't hurt the Badgers' defense as much as one might have thought.</p> <p>Coming off Wisconsin's second bye week in October, many believed linebacker <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77781/chris-borland" class="sbn-auto-link">Chris Borland</a> would return from an injured hamstring. But for those who follow Wisconsin sports teams -- namely the Green Bay Packers -- hamstring injuries are always touchy and the ETA of one's return linger up in the air. Saturday was another example of the volatility of said injury, and it seemed with the loss of Borland to injury as well as defensive lineman <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77785/tyler-dippel" class="sbn-auto-link">Tyler Dippel</a> to a family issue, the shorthanded defense might be vulnerable against an Iowa offense that stayed neck-and-neck with Ohio State for three quarters.</p>
<p><span>We thought wrong. </span></p>
<p>With linebacker Marcus Trotter stepping up again in his second straight game of relief, the Wisconsin defense held a fourth opponent's offense to zero touchdowns as the Badgers kept the Heartland Trophy.</p>
<h4>Numbers to notice</h4>
<p><b>6th:</b> National ranking for Wisconsin in total defense, giving up 286.1 yards per game (second in the Big Ten behind Michigan State)</p>
<p><b>5th:</b> National ranking for Wisconsin in scoring defense, giving up 15.0 points per game (second in the Big Ten behind Michigan State)</p>
<p><b>5th:</b> National ranking for Wisconsin in rush defense, giving up 91.0 yards per game (third in Big Ten)</p>
<p><b>15th:</b> National ranking for Wisconsin in pass defense, allowing 195.1 yards per game (third in Big Ten)</p>
<p><b>+3:</b> Turnover margin for Wisconsin on the season (five fumble recoveries + seven interceptions - nine turnovers), tied for 41st in the nation in turnovers per game</p>
<p><b>4-of-18:</b> Iowa's third-down efficiency</p>
<p><b>179:</b> Passing yards given up by Wisconsin's defense</p>
<p><b>115:</b> Rushing yards given up by Wisconsin's defense</p>
<p><b>1:</b> Number of sacks by Wisconsin's defense</p>
<p><b>8:</b> Tackles for loss by Wisconsin's defense</p>
<p><b>7:</b> Quarterback hits by Wisconsin's defense</p>
<p><b>8:</b> Three-and-outs by Iowa's offense (including a one-play drive that resulted in the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135204/darius-hillary">Darius Hillary</a> interception)</p>
<p><b>4:</b> Red-zone opportunities for Iowa</p>
<p><b>0:</b> Red-zone touchdowns for Iowa</p>
<p>Against a more pro-style offense -- only the second true pro look the Badgers have faced all season -- defensive coordinator Dave Aranda employed the following looks:</p>
<ul>
<li>A base 3-4 personnel look with an odd front, used a lot more Saturday against the pro-style offense.</li>
<li>A 3-4 personnel with an even front, with an outside linebacker (like <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/48832/brendan-kelly">Brendan Kelly</a> or <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77779/ethan-armstrong">Ethan Armstrong</a>) as the psuedo-fourth linemen</li>
<li>A 2-4-5 look, with two defensive linemen, four linebackers and five defensive backs, with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160207/vince-biegel" class="sbn-auto-link">Vince Biegel</a> rushing off the edge with Kelly.</li>
<li>That crazy 1-4-6 alignment, with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77798/pat-muldoon" class="sbn-auto-link">Pat Muldoon</a> acting as the lone defensive linemen in place of Dippel, with Kelly, Armstrong and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160190/joe-schobert" class="sbn-auto-link">Joe Schobert</a> rushing, as well as some fun mixes in blitzing personnel with the secondary as well.</li>
</ul>
<h4>What went right</h4>
<p><b>1. Pressure on Iowa quarterbacks.</b> Wisconsin had only one sack, but seven quarterback hurries confused quarterbacks <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/142530/jake-rudock" class="sbn-auto-link">Jake Rudock</a> an <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159350/c-j-beathard" class="sbn-auto-link">C.J. Beathard</a>, which showed in some of their throws. Some of the fun looks seen in that 1-4-6 look included blitzes from the secondary, as <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/37056/mike-caputo" class="sbn-auto-link">Mike Caputo</a>, Tanner McEvoy and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77768/dezmen-southward" class="sbn-auto-link">Dezmen Southward</a>, rushed from every direction. Pressure by Armstrong and Trotter led to costly interceptions for the Hawkeyes, which the Badgers converted into 14 points.</p>
<p><b>2. No touchdowns allowed. </b>Four times Iowa drove inside the Wisconsin red zone. Four times Iowa came away without a touchdown. A big credit to the Badgers' defense to hold the Hawkeyes to only three field goals.</p>
<p><b>3. Muldoon.</b> He pressured Rudock and Beathard, earning a half-sack and a quarterback hit, as well as a leaping interception off a deflected ball in the fourth quarter. This year he's played very well from what I've seen during games, and with Dippel out, he and fellow defensive end <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77792/ethan-hemer" class="sbn-auto-link">Ethan Hemer</a> stepped up big in Iowa City.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1899871/RGdoink_medium.gif"><img alt="Rgdoink_medium_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1899871/RGdoink_medium_medium.gif"></a></p>
<p><b>4. Another 4th-and-1 stop.</b> It was a classic power-left run by the Hawkeyes, who converted on a few close third-down conversions earlier in the game. But defensive back <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160199/nate-hammon" class="sbn-auto-link">Nate Hammon</a> stuffed his blocker a yard behind the line of scrimmage, allowing Trotter and company to converge on running back <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/142161/mark-weisman" class="sbn-auto-link">Mark Weisman</a> and halt an Iowa drive in Wisconsin territory.</p>
<p><b>5. Players stepping up with injuries mounting. </b>Sans Borland and Dippel, the defense had something to prove after a so-so performance against Illinois. The bye week helped them prepare and regroup, and Trotter, who led the team in tackles against the Illini, showed he can start and that he belonged, recording a team-high nine tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and a quarterback hit (the one that led to the Muldoon interception). The defensive line also stepped up in a tough situation in Kinnick Stadium.</p>
<h4>What went wrong</h4>
<p><b>1. One long rushing play.</b> The backside hole was opened up wide for running back <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/142536/jordan-canzeri" class="sbn-auto-link">Jordan Canzeri</a>, leading the Hawkeyes to threaten after the Badgers went up, 14-6. Canzeri beat Caputo to the edge and ended up with a 43-yard gain. Besides that run, the Badgers' rush defense allowed just 89 yards, and even with that run, still only gave up 3.6 yards per rush.</p>
<p><b>2. Slant to the left side.</b> A couple of times I saw this, and regardless of who was covering the particular play, whether it was <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/214793/sojourn-shelton" class="sbn-auto-link">Sojourn Shelton</a> or Hillary, the Hawkeyes saw an opening on a slant pattern from the left side. Whether the corner had man-to-man coverage or was hoping the safety would be there on the inside to provide help, it was open a couple of times. The defense held Iowa to 179 passing yards, though.</p>
<h4>Final thoughts</h4>
<p>Another spread-heavy team makes its way to Camp Randall Stadium Saturday, as the BYU Cougars come to Madison to take on the Badgers. Quarterback Taysom Hill has thrown for over 2,000 yards, along with nearly 800 rushing yards and a per-carry average nearing 6 yards. He has, however, thrown eight interceptions, one in at least six of BYU's eight games. I expect Caputo to be an "extra athlete" on the field as an F-side linebacker as previously seen against spread-like teams, along with more playing time for McEvoy at safety.</p>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/11/5/5061838/wisconsin-iowa-recap-chris-borland-badgers-defenseJake Kocorowski2013-11-03T15:01:59-06:002013-11-03T15:01:59-06:00Wisconsin vs. Iowa highlights
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<figcaption>Matthew Holst</figcaption>
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<p>As always, <a href="http://uwbadgers.com/">UWBadgers.com</a> put together a great highlight package from Wisconsin's win over Iowa Saturday.</p>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/11/3/5062094/wisconsin-iowa-video-highlightsMike Fiammetta2013-11-03T13:20:51-06:002013-11-03T13:20:51-06:00Week 10 offense review: Pedersen, Badgers seal win
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<figcaption>Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sport</figcaption>
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<p>Wisconsin's lowest offensive output of the year in terms of yards did not matter, as the use of tight end Jacob Pedersen and a grinding ground game won out in the end.</p> <p>Saturday's contest pitting the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/wisconsin-badgers">Wisconsin Badgers</a> and the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/iowa-hawkeyes">Iowa Hawkeyes</a> was built up as a matchup of big-on-big, Big Boy Football. It did not disappoint in that regard, as the two teams' offensive and defensive lines tangled, clashed and fought all 60 minutes of the game.</p>
<p>However, the Badgers' offense, with many two-running back and two-tight end sets, along with a variation of the fly sweep, wore down the Hawkeyes enough to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/11/2/5059006/no-24-badgers-polish-off-heartland-trophy-hawkeyes-28-9">retain the Heartland Trophy</a> after a 28-9 victory.</p>
<h4>Personnel breakdown</h4>
<table><tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="6"><b><i>FIRST HALF</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Personnel (RB/TE)</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center; "><b>Run</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Pass</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center; "><b>Total</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>TD</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Notes</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">31</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2 fake fly sweeps, 19 yards for James White</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">Kneel Down</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">_02</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">_03</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">_04</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">10</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">11<br>
</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">11</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Stave: 6-of-10, 84 yards 1 TD, 1 INT, 1 sack</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">12</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">13</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">14</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">20</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">21</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">22</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">7</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td align="center" style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right; ">23</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right; "><b>Total 1st half:</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center; ">18</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">12</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">30</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<table><tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="6"><b><i>SECOND HALF</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Personnel (RB/TE)</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center; "><b>Run</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Pass</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Total</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>TD</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Notes</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">31</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td align="center" style="text-align: center;">3 fake fly sweeps, 15 yards</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">Kneel Down</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">_02</td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">_03</td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">_04</td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
<td style="text-align: right;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">10</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">11</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">5</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">12</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Stave to Abbrederis, 20-yard TD pass</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">13</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">14</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">20</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">21</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">22</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">13</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">White's first 4th-quarter TD: off power</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;">23</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">White's second 4th-quarter TD: goal line</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;"><b>Total 2nd half:</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">26</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">8</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">34</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td><br></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>Run/pass breakdown</h4>
<p>Runs: 44</p>
<p>Passes: 20</p>
<p>Total plays: 64</p>
<p>Touchdowns: 4</p>
<h4>Fun with numbers</h4>
<p><b>478:</b> Total yards gained by Wisconsin against Illinois two weeks ago</p>
<p><b>362:</b> Total yards gained Saturday by Wisconsin against Iowa's defense, which ranked 12th in total defense, giving up only 320.5 yards per contest</p>
<p><b>25:</b> Total yards in the first quarter against Iowa</p>
<p><b>337:</b> Total yards in the final three quarters against Iowa</p>
<p><b>7.1:</b> Yards per play against Illinois two weeks ago</p>
<p><b>5.7:</b> Yards per play against Iowa Saturday</p>
<p><b>3:</b> Catches by wide receiver <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77770/jared-abbrederis" class="sbn-auto-link">Jared Abbrederis</a></p>
<p><b>3:</b> Catches by the rest of the Badgers' receivers (two by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132127/kenzel-doe">Kenzel Doe</a>, one by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77771/jeff-duckworth">Jeff Duckworth</a>)</p>
<p><b>5:</b> Catches altogether by Badgers excluding Abbrederis and receivers (three by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77783/jacob-pedersen">Jacob Pedersen</a> and two byJames White)</p>
<p><b>18:</b> Receptions for Pedersen in 2013 season</p>
<p><b>10:</b> Receptions for Pedersen in last three games</p>
<p><b>2:</b> Touchdowns for Pedersen in last three games</p>
<p><b>289:</b> Total rushing yards by Wisconsin against Illinois two weeks ago</p>
<p><b>218:</b> Total rushing yards by Wisconsin against Iowa Saturday</p>
<p><b>1:</b> Number of turnovers by Wisconsin's offense</p>
<p><b>4-for-15: </b>Wisconsin's third-down conversion rate against Iowa</p>
<p><b>1:</b> Number of sacks given up by Wisconsin</p>
<p><b>10:05:</b> Time of possession in the fourth quarter against Iowa</p>
<p><b>32:06:</b> Time of possession total for Wisconsin against Iowa</p>
<p><b>3-for-3:</b> Red-zone conversions by Wisconsin into touchdowns</p>
<p><b>14:</b> Wisconsin points off Iowa turnovers</p>
<p>And lastly, a fun fact:</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Badgers&src=hash">#Badgers</a> have scored 307 points this season, 153 in the first half & 154 in the second half. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Balance&src=hash">#Balance</a></p>
— Badger Football (@BadgerFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/BadgerFootball/statuses/397032399545974784">November 3, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
<h4>What went right</h4>
<p><b>1. A dominant fourth-quarter performance.</b> Wisconsin grinded and willed its way to securing the win at the end of the game, eating up 10:05 of the clock and scoring two touchdowns in the final quarter. Offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig only called four passing plays in the final 20 plays (technically two, as Stave scrambled twice, so those are counted as rushing plays), and only four of those plays involved sets with two or fewer tight ends.</p>
<p><b>2. Points off turnovers.</b> Wisconsin's defense forced two interceptions by Iowa quarterbacks <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/142530/jake-rudock">Jake Rudock</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159350/c-j-beathard">C.J. Beathard</a>, which led to two Wisconsin touchdown drives thereafter. After the Darius Hillary interception in the third quarter, quarterback <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132124/joel-stave">Joel Stave</a> threw a strike to Abbrederis for a 20-yard touchdown the next play, increasing the Wisconsin lead to eight. After defensive linemen <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77798/pat-muldoon">Pat Muldoon</a> leapt in the air to intercept a Beathard pass in the fourth, the Badgers capitalized on a three-play, 25 yard-drive, with White taking it from 11 yards to put the Badgers up, 21-9.</p>
<p><b>3. James White.</b> With everyone talking about the possible Heisman Trophy hopes of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135206/melvin-gordon">Melvin Gordon</a>, the senior solidly ran for 132 yards on nearly 7 yards per carry, with two late scores. He also caught two passes for 19 yards out of the backfield as a nice compliment to the passing game. White will go down as one of the most underrated running backs to ever don a Wisconsin uniform.</p>
<p><b>4. Screen passes.</b> Head coach Gary Andersen mentioned earlier this year how he wanted to incorporate more screen passes into the offense. Two of them worked nicely Saturday, as a screen to White out of the backfield gained 9 yards, while a Stave pass to Pedersen gained 11 in the second half that almost went for a touchdown if the senior wasn't tripped up at the 11-yard line.</p>
<p><b>5. The effectiveness of fly sweep without running it.</b> Iowa did a very good job against Wisconsin's first fly sweep attempt by stuffing Gordon, but faking it using <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/214791/corey-clement">Corey Clement</a> starting in the second quarter proved quite useful. Mostly running that formation out of a 31 personnel in an I-formation set, the zone runs set up with the fake helped White gain 19 yards on two carries in the first half, along with the team gaining 15 yards on three plays in the second half. Just the threat of it opens up other aspects of the running game as well as the play-action pass, as seen in the Northwestern game.</p>
<h4>What went wrong</h4>
<p><b>1. First-quarter offense.</b> Four three-and-outs, an interception and 25 total yards. This was going into a terrible wind at Kinnick Stadium, against a Hawkeye defense motivated to stop the Badgers' potent running game. It was an ugly first 15 minutes.</p>
<p><b>2. Penalties on offense.</b> The Badgers had seven penalties Saturday, five on the offense: two false starts, two holding calls and a delay of game. The only one that really affected a drive was a false start in the first quarter, but none were deemed as "drive killers," if you will, which bode well on the road.</p>
<p><b>3. No big runs from Gordon.</b> The Hawkeyes' defense scouted out the fly sweep quite well, dropping Gordon for a 5-yard loss early in the game. Gordon ran well for the most part between the tackles, but his longest run was 13 yards for the day, a big accomplishment for Iowa.</p>
<h4>Final thoughts</h4>
<p>Many knew this game would be fought in the trenches and would be a low-scoring affair. Wisconsin wore down Iowa, and by converting big points off of Hawkeye turnovers, kept the Heartland Trophy in Madison.</p>
<p>Next up for Wisconsin is BYU with its 51st-ranked defense, 42nd in the nation against the run at 145.3 yards per game and 74th against the pass at 237.4 yards per.</p>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/11/3/5060826/wisconsin-iowa-recap-badgers-offense-jacob-pedersen-james-whiteJake Kocorowski2013-11-02T15:11:18-05:002013-11-02T15:11:18-05:00Wisconsin handles Iowa, retains Heartland Trophy
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<figcaption>Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sport</figcaption>
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<p>UW's defense bent, but didn't break in a tough road win at Kinnick Stadium.</p> <p><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/2CpxMdExolc" height="315" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For the first time since 2010, Wisconsin and Iowa met Saturday to battle for the Heartland Trophy.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">And it was an ugly one.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">With their vaunted running game—led by former Iowa-commit Melvin Gordon—largely bottled up, the Badgers battled the Hawkeyes in a game of field position, using several key plays including a third quarter touchdown pass to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77770/jared-abbrederis">Jared Abbrederis</a> to escape with a 28-9 win.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Battling a strong wind and raucous crowd at Kinnick Stadium, No. 24 Wisconsin (6-2, 4-1) held Iowa (5-4, 2-3) in check thanks to an outstanding defensive effort that didn’t include All-Big Ten starting linebacker <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77781/chris-borland">Chris Borland</a>, who was held out of the game due to injury.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">But redshirt junior Marcus Trotter filled the void and more for the Badgers, leading the team in tackles and making perhaps the play of the game—tipping an Iowa pass in the air, allowing defensive end <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77798/pat-muldoon">Pat Muldoon</a> to come down with the interception with 7:43 left in the fourth quarter.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1895783/RGdoink_medium.gif"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1895783/RGdoink_medium_medium.gif" class="photo" alt="Rgdoink_medium_medium"></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Trotter finished the game leading all Wisconsin players with nine tackles.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Offensively, the Badgers sputtered out of the gates early in the first half, scoring no points in the first quarter. After an interception thrown by quarterback <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132124/joel-stave">Joel Stave</a> on the opening drive, the UW offense put together three consecutive three and outs while punter <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135225/drew-meyer">Drew Meyer</a> struggled to punt against the stiff wind, giving the Hawkeyes great field position thanks to punts of 23, 27 and 19 yards.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The Badgers’ defense held strong as the offense gradually gained its footing, holding the Hawkeyes to just six points in the half.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">They were rewarded for their efforts with 1:49 remaining in the second quarter when Stave found tight end <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77783/jacob-pedersen">Jacob Pedersen</a> open in the center of the field for a 44-yard touchdown pass, giving UW their first lead of the game, 7-6.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It was the first time the Badgers offense—and any other receiving option not named Abbrederis—showed signs of life, as Pedersen found a way to get behind Iowa defensive backs <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/113827/tanner-miller">Tanner Miller</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/206465/desmond-king">Desmond King</a>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The Badgers defense continued its stalwart ways in the second half, as cornerback Darius Hilary intercepted an errant pass from Iowa quarterback <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/142530/jake-rudock">Jake Rudock</a> to give Wisconsin the ball at the Iowa 20.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A play later Stave found Abbrederis in the middle of the endzone for a 20 yard touchdown to increase their lead to 14-7.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It was the last time Abbrederis would see the field, as a chest injury ended the star wide receiver’s day early. Abbrederis finished the day with three catches for 30 yards, second only to Pedersen’s total of 70 yards on three catches.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">To end the day, in true Wisconsin fashion, the run game took over, grinding Iowa down over the final quarter with touchdown runs from James White of 11 and 2 yards.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">With Gordon bottled up, White was the poison to the Iowa run defense, accumulating 132 yards on 19 carries. It was the first 100-yard rushing game in White’s career where he was the only Badger back to reach the feat.</p>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/11/2/5059006/no-24-badgers-polish-off-heartland-trophy-hawkeyes-28-9BadgerState6082013-11-02T10:55:03-05:002013-11-02T10:55:03-05:00GAME THREAD: Wisconsin vs. Iowa
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cKDZtKsUsZp7oTn5fpIuaUc2kpM=/0x0:750x500/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/22026489/20131102_iowa.0.png" />
<figcaption>Graphic: Phil Mitten</figcaption>
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<p>Chris Borland is out. Yikes. Come vent with us!</p> <h4>Links you might like:</h4>
<p><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/10/28/5035678/wisconsin-iowa-preview-2013-football/in/4801229">Getting to know Iowa</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/kielbasa-kings-sports-extravaganza-podcast/2013/11/1/5052724/big-e-langston-wwe-iowa-hawkeyes">Former Iowa Hawkeye Big E Langston making B1G splash in WWE</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/10/30/5037042/wisconsin-football-schedule-iowa-byu-indiana-minnesota-penn-state/in/4801229">Wisconsin football schedule: Badgers entering the danger zone</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/10/29/5044878/wisconsin-iowa-preview-james-white/in/4801229">Wisconsin's James White has unfinished business against Iowa</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/10/31/5050680/melvin-gordon-james-white-touchdown-dance/in/4801229">The Melvin Gordon-James White touchdown dance is offically a thing</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/10/31/5052524/gary-andersen-has-grown-a-mullet-for-halloween/in/4801229">Gary Andersen has grown a mullet for Halloween</a></p>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/11/2/5045656/live-game-thread-no-22-wisconsin-badgers-vs-iowa-hawkeyesMike Fiammetta2013-11-02T10:31:06-05:002013-11-02T10:31:06-05:00#AskB5Q: The Fear of Iowa
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<figcaption>Denny Medley-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>Just how good are the Hawkguy Linebackers?</p> <p>It's good times in Madison. Our coach is <a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/10/31/5050680/melvin-gordon-james-white-touchdown-dance" target="_blank">donning pads and pancaking the heck out of Beau Allen</a>. Everyone in the city is high-fiving and dancing. We're feeling great. But there's a question coming from a place moderately southwest of us. A question... of fear.</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/herbst20">Scott Herbst</a>, you have the floor.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/B5Q">@B5Q</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/thegnc">@thegnc</a> Will Wisconsin have trouble with arguably the best set of linebackers in the conference?</p>
— Scott Herbst (@herbst20) <a href="https://twitter.com/herbst20/statuses/396047145863614464">October 31, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>So the joke response here is, "Are we playing Ohio State again?"</p>
<p>Okay. All seriousness, Iowa has a very good tag-team at linebacker in <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/113823/anthony-hitchens" class="sbn-auto-link">Anthony Hitchens</a> and James Morris. The rush defense is 25th per game and 36th per play. It's solid statistically. But let's go deeper.</p>
<table border="0">
<caption style="text-align: start;">Iowa Against The Run 2013</caption>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Team</td>
<td>Attempts</td>
<td>Rushing</td>
<td>Touchdowns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Northern Illinois</td>
<td>42</td>
<td>163</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Southwest Missouri State</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>59</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Western Michigan</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>74</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Minnesota</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>37</td>
<td>135</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>51</td>
<td>273</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Northwestern</td>
<td>52</td>
<td>225</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Seems pretty impressive, right? Four dominant performances, two decent ones, one shaky one and no one's going to blame you for getting gashed against the run by Ohio State. But if you look hard enough, you can see holes.</p>
<p>For one? Three of those dominant performances are teams they're supposed to shut down. Iowa State and Western Michigan are both north of 100th place rushing on a per-play basis. Southwest Missouri State is an FCS team. You aught to dominate them, right?</p>
<p>The Iowa fan may point to performances against Northern Illinois and Minnesota. Both are top-25 rush offenses. Heck, Northern Illinois is third on a per-play basis. Rightfully so. But guess what? This is a straw man. Let's knock it down.</p>
<p>For one, Northern Illinois's best opponent by far is Iowa. Everyone else it's played is a combined 11-37 this season. And while Purdue and Akron were able to contain the run a little bit, Northern Illinois rush offense is based on smacking around Central and Eastern Michigan, Idaho, Kent State and Western Illinois. It's a touch of a misnomer.</p>
<p>And Minnesota? The Gophers were without starting fullback Mike Henry, and as a statistical misnomer goes, Minnesota's got the sort of running game that has absolutely feasted against some of the cupcakes it's faced. In fact? In five of their wins, the Gophers have put up 79 percent of their rushing yards and all 19 of their touchdowns. I'm not saying they're a paper tiger, but they haven't beaten a team whose rush defense is above 68 (Northwestern), and their best non-conference rush defense is currently 103rd nationally (San Jose State).</p>
<p>Not going to castigate the Gophers for playing cupcakes because no one is innocent in that respect. I only use this to provide a contrast to Iowa's statistical rush defense vis a vis their linebacking corps. I only use this to finally answer at long last.</p>
<p>No Scott, I don't fear Iowa's linebackers against our running game. They won't go easily. But I believe in <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135206/melvin-gordon" class="sbn-auto-link">Melvin Gordon</a>.</p>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/11/2/5054404/askb5q-the-fear-of-iowaAndrew Rosin2013-11-02T10:28:37-05:002013-11-02T10:28:37-05:005th Quarter Consensus: Badgers will handle Iowa
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<figcaption>Trevor Ruszkowksi-USA TODAY Spor</figcaption>
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<p>Can the Badgers make it two straight victories over the Hawkeyes in Iowa City? Our staff likes Wisconsin's chances.</p> <h4>The Predictions</h4>
<p><b>Phil Mitten (7-0, +97):</b> Wisconsin 28, Iowa 24</p>
<p><b>Jake Harris (7-0, +108):</b> Wisconsin 35, Iowa 21</p>
<p><b>Mike Fiammetta (6-1, +104):</b> Wisconsin 31, Iowa 18</p>
<p><b>Jake Kocorowski (6-1, +107):</b> Wisconsin 34, Iowa 20</p>
<p><b>Andrew Rosin (6-1, +109):</b> Wisconsin 28, Iowa 17</p>
<p><b>Andy Johnson (6-1, +126):</b> Wisconsin 24, Iowa 17</p>
<p><b>Louis Bien (6-1, +127):</b> Wisconsin 28, Iowa 27</p>
<h4>The Reasoning</h4>
<p>Barring a dramatic change in the weather forecast for Saturday, the Badgers will finally play a road game that does not require in-stadium lighting. While Gary Andersen and his team will avoid a fourth consecutive night game away from Madison, the Hawkeye fans at Kinnick Stadium will be in full throat for Iowa's first showdown against Wisconsin since 2010.</p>
<p>Iowa is coming off of a 17-10 overtime victory over Northwestern. After stumbling in their opener against Northern Illinois, the Hawkeyes rattled off four consecutive victories before dropping a 26-14 decision to Michigan State at home and losing by ten points at Ohio State.</p>
<p>The three teams to beat Iowa have lost just one game among themselves this season. The Hawkeyes led all three games at halftime by at least four points.</p>
<p>Inconsistent offense has plagued Iowa all season long. Sophomore quarterback <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/142530/jake-rudock">Jake Rudock</a> shows potential but is still a work in progress. He has completed 60.9 percent of his passes this season for 1,616 yards and 12 touchdowns.</p>
<p>Injuries and recruiting misses over the years have led the Hawkeyes to turn to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/142161/mark-weisman">Mark Weisman</a> at running back. Weisman averages a respectable 4.9 yards per carry but has scored just three touchdowns.</p>
<p>Iowa likes to run the ball, as evidenced by Weisman's and Damon Bullock's combined 241 carries through eight games. When Rudock drops back to pass, he will often target one of the nation's most promising young tight ends, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/113836/c-j-fiedorowicz">C.J. Fiedorowicz</a>. Wisconsin heavily recruited the tall target before he decided to play in Iowa City.</p>
<p>The Hawkeyes rank 80th in the country in averaging 27.4 points per game. Meanwhile, Wisconsin expects senior linebacker <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77781/chris-borland">Chris Borland</a> to return to action after missing most of the Badgers' game against Illinois with a hamstring injury. That should help Dave Aranda's defense slow down Iowa.</p>
<p>Defensively, the Hawkeyes rank 12th in the nation in giving up just 18.1 points per game. Iowa has held four of its eight opponents to 14 points or fewer.</p>
<p>Wisconsin, however, has not scored fewer than 24 points in a game this season. Expect a heavy dose of James White and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135206/melvin-gordon">Melvin Gordon</a> unless Iowa proves its ability to contain them. Sophomore quarterback <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132124/joel-stave">Joel Stave</a> needs to connect on play-action pass or two early to discourage Iowa's safeties from crowding the box.</p>
<p>After benching struggling junior kicker <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114199/kyle-french">Kyle French</a>, the Badgers did not attempt a field goal against the Fighting Illini in Champaign. Going into that game, the plan was for <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160189/jack-russell">Jack Russell</a> to handle most field goals and for Borland to attempt kicks longer than 40 yards. It is doubtful, however, whether Andersen will want Borland kicking this week, given his latest injury.</p>
<h4>Who has the edge?</h4>
<p><b>Offense: </b>Wisconsin</p>
<p><b>Defense:</b> Wisconsin</p>
<p><b>Special Teams:</b> Iowa</p>
<p><b>Coaching:</b> Wisconsin</p>
<p><b>Intangibles:</b> Iowa</p>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/11/2/5055890/5th-quarter-consensus-badgers-take-care-of-hawkeyes-at-kinnickJake Harris2013-11-01T15:00:04-05:002013-11-01T15:00:04-05:00From the Other Side: BHGP previews UW-Iowa
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/p6U0U01QHbtXDESim9DC7nIaS4c=/0x152:4000x2819/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/22212793/20131026_kdl_sh6_029.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Byron Hetzler-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>As one of the two guests on the blog this week -- the other being <a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/kielbasa-kings-sports-extravaganza-podcast/2013/11/1/5052724/big-e-langston-wwe-iowa-hawkeyes" target="new">Big E Langston</a> -- RossWB from Black Heart Gold Pants is back for his last preview of this weekend's game.</p> <p><b>1. B5Q:</b> Nice to see you guys again! What's the vibe around Iowa City entering this game? We haven't met since 2010 -- did you miss us?</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Ross:</b> Honestly, yes. The Iowa-Wisconsin series may not generate the amount of vitriol, scorn, or just downright bitter hatred that the Iowa State and Minnesota series bring to the table, but I think it's easily one of Iowa's most compelling rivalries. The absurd evenness in the series is part of that -- 42-42-2 -- but it's also a series that has produced a lot of close, exciting games in the last 10-15 years. This series has also featured some memorable moments, like Iowa clinching a Big Ten championship against the Badgers in 2004, Shonn Greene going bananas against them in 2008, Ron Dayne setting the NCAA rushing record against Iowa, and the goddamn fake punt in that goddamn 2010 game. So I'm very happy to see Wisconsin back on the schedule for Iowa and I'm even happier to know that they won't be leaving the schedule anytime soon, thanks to the (sensibly) realigned divisions in the Big Ten. Iowa-Wisconsin is a series that should be played every year and I'm glad that's once again the case. And now I hope we beat you by 30 on Saturday.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>2. B5Q:</b> Offensively, where does Iowa stand entering this game and what should we expect Saturday?</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Ross:</b> Uncertain. The offense was a four-alarm dumpster fire of sadness (and badness) last year, barely able to string together first downs, let alone scoring drives. It's been improved this year, but that improvement has kind of faded away in Big Ten play. They haven't scored more than 24 points in four B1G games so far and they've been held under 20 points in both B1G home games to date; getting stymied by the Michigan State defense is one thing, but floundering against the Northwestern defense is just a bit more frustrating. A lot of Iowa's early offensive success this year was predicated on a strong running game that allowed Iowa to control the clock; outside of the Minnesota game, though, the ground game has been a shadow of its earlier self. Better defenses certainly have played a factor there, as has a nagging ankle injury to lead RB Mark Weisman, but it's still disconcerting. My hunch is that we see a lot of three-tight end sets out of Iowa on Saturday; it's a formation they've used effectively against Ohio State and Northwestern and it gives a boost to the running game (by providing some additional capable blockers) and provides some sneaky-good options in the passing game (since Iowa's tight ends are the best part of the passing game this season). Hopefully that gets the Iowa offense going.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>3. B5Q:</b> Defensively?</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Ross:</b> Legendary defensive coordinator Norm Parker has retired since the last time you saw Iowa, but things haven't changed too much under his replacement, former Iowa defensive backs coach Phil Parker (no relation). Iowa still plays a fairly basic 4-3, with two deep safeties and a lot of cover-2/quarters coverage. The cornerbacks will still give opposing receivers pretty decent-sized cushions, especially on short routes. The biggest difference in the Iowa defense this year is probably an increased willingness to blitz -- mainly from the linebacker positions, but we've also seen a few corner blitzes. Of course, the main reason we've seen more blitzes this year is because the defensive line has had a very difficult time generating a pass rush on their own. The Iowa defense is coming off a six-sack performance against Northwestern, though, so perhaps the pass rush is finally improving. The Iowa defense had made up for its so-so pass rush by being very stout against the run through the first half of the season, but both Ohio State and Northwestern ripped them apart on the ground the last two weeks. That's not exactly an encouraging sign with Wisconsin coming to town.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>4. B5Q:</b> Could you give us on player on each side of the ball that could have a deciding impact on the game? Bonus points for under-the-radar guys.</p>
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<p><b>Ross:</b> On offense, the guys who will play the most significant roles will probably be QB Jake Rudock, RB Mark Weisman, and TE <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/113836/c-j-fiedorowicz" class="sbn-auto-link">C.J. Fiedorowicz</a> (one of Iowa's top receiving threats and a player who's caught a TD in three straight games entering this contest), but if you're looking for a more under-the-radar guy... let's go with WR Damond Powell. He's a JUCO transfer averaging over 27 yards/catch and he's got speed to burn -- speed the likes of which teams like Iowa almost never have. He's been quiet in Big Ten play since taking a bubble screen 80 yards to the end zone against Minnesota, but he has the sort of game-breaking speed that Iowa will need to exploit to pull off an upset on Saturday.</p>
<p>On defense, the main men are the linebackers -- James Morris, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/113821/christian-kirksey" class="sbn-auto-link">Christian Kirksey</a>, and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/113823/anthony-hitchens" class="sbn-auto-link">Anthony Hitchens</a>. They've been the leaders on defense all season and for Iowa to win, they'll need to play very well this week. But I'm going to tab defensive tackles <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/113839/louis-trinca-pasat" class="sbn-auto-link">Louis Trinca-Pasat</a> and Carl Davis because they're going to need to have very big games against the Badger offensive lo slow down that Wisconsin rushing attack. If Morris, Kirksey, and Hitchens are only making tackles six or seven yards downfield, that doesn't do much for Iowa. The best way to avoid that is for Trinca-Pasat and Davis to get some penetration and blow up a few rushing plays at the line of scrimmage (or, preferably, in the Wisconsin backfield).</p>
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<p><b>5. B5Q:</b> I think most non-Hawkeye Big Ten fans enjoy Iowa City already, but what would be the ideal Friday night/Saturday morning pre-game for Wisconsin fans making the trip?</p>
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<p><b>Ross:</b> Hmm, the ideal Friday night/Saturday morning? I'd probably recommend grabbing a burger at Shorts (owned by former Hawkeye great Nate Kaeding) or some pizza at The Airliner (conveniently located almost right next to each other), and then checking out some of the bars downtown Iowa City has to offer. If you're looking for an older crowd and/or a more laid back vibe, hit up Joe's Place, Mickey's, or BoJames. If you're looking for a younger crowd and a more frenetic vibe, hit up The Union or Brothers. And if you just want to get your weird on, you can always drop by the Deadwood.</p>
<p>After you've boozed the night away, you'll probably want to get some more food -- to absorb the alcohol, if nothing else. The food vendors located in the Ped Mall area are a solid option (you wold never pay $6 for a grilled cheese from Marco's while sober, but it seems like a splendid idea when you're drunk), but it's hard to pass up a trip to Panchero's for a little late-night burrito action. As for Saturday, I recommend waking up bright and early and heading over to Hamburg Inn No.2, an Iowa City institution and home of some excellent breakfast options (and pie-shakes, but you might not want a pie-shake for breakfast). After filling up at Hamburg, head across the river to Kinnick Stadium and check out the tailgating scene all around the stadium. It sprawls into various streets and neighborhoods near the stadium, so there's plenty to see and do (and drink). And if you work up a little hunger before the game (or perhaps immediately after the game), the food vendors on Melrose are worth checking out, too -- it's hard to say no to a pork tenderloin bigger than your face.</p>
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<p><b>6. B5Q:</b> Do you have a prediction?</p>
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<p><b>Ross:</b> I've only picked against Iowa once this year, when Iowa headed to Columbus to take on the mighty Buckeyes. And for three quarters, they surprised the hell out of me. Wisconsin appears to be pretty easily the second-best team Iowa has played so far this season (give or take your feelings about Michigan State, I suppose), so I expect a very tough game on Saturday. I would like to predict that this is the game where Iowa figures things out, puts together a complete performance for 60 minutes, and knocks off a top-25 team with their best showing of the year... but after watching Ohio State and Northwestern gobble up rushing yards against Iowa, I have a hard time seeing how the Iowa defense slows down the Badger ground game enough to pull off the upset. I think it's a close game for three quarters, with Wisconsin adding a touchdown in the fourth quarter to pull away. <b>Wisconsin 31, Iowa 21.</b></p>
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https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/11/1/5055532/wisconsin-iowa-preview-black-heart-gold-pantsMike Fiammetta