PLAYERS TO WATCH
–RB Jonathan Taylor has vaulted his name back into consideration for the Heisman Trophy. After running for a career-high 321 yards and scoring three touchdowns, including an 80-yarder, against Purdue, Taylor remains the nation’s leading rusher with 1,869 yards and 15 touchdowns. He’s averaging 169.9 yards per game, which is 31.6 yards better than any other player in the country.
–QB Jack Coan earned his first career victory against the Boilermakers after overcoming a sluggish start. Coan, in his third start, completed 16-of-24 passes for 160 yards and two touchdowns. His play in the second half and overtime was a good sign. All three of his starts have been on the road, so how he plays at home is something to watch against the Gophers.
–WR Danny Davis III had a strong showing against the Boilermakers to help the Badgers notch the win. He caught two fourth quarter touchdowns to finish with four catches for 82 yards. The Gophers have a young and injured secondary, thus opening the door for another big outing.
–LB Andrew Van Ginkel is coming off a 10-tackle showing. All 10 were solo tackles. When healthy, his hustle and long reach combined with T.J. Edwards and Ryan Connelly give the Badgers a strong linebacking core.
SERIES HISTORY: Wisconsin leads Minnesota 60-59-8. The Badgers have won 14 straight in the series, including 11 in a row in Madison. The Badgers crushed the Gophers 31-0 last season in Minneapolis.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “I gave everything for my teammates. We’ve been through so much this season. I want to send the seniors off right, so I’m doing everything in my power to get them out of here with a win. It took everything I had.” — UW running back Jonathan Taylor after his 321-yard game against Purdue.
