PLAYERS TO WATCH
–QB Alex Hornibrook has come up big in the last two wins, showing his experience by leading the Badgers to strong second-half efforts. Hornibrook faces the No. 1 defense in total yards in the country. The junior is no stranger to big games, so how he reacts to the pressure and ability to adapt to tough situations will impact the final outcome.
–RB Jonathan Taylor can take a big step forward toward winning the Heisman Trophy with a strong performance against Michigan’s vaunted defense, which allows just 230.5 total yards per game. Taylor has rushed for 849 yards and eight touchdowns.
“Taylor is a really good player,” Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh said.
–S Scott Nelson will sit out the first half due to a targeting penalty against Nebraska. The UW secondary has been beset with injuries, so when Nelson returns to the field after halftime it could provide a jolt to the team.
–LB T.J. Edwards can further stamp his name as an All-American with a big game against the Wolverines. His ability to make big plays and help out the running game is key to a victory.
SERIES HISTORY: Michigan leads Wisconsin 50-15-1. The Badgers have won five of the last eight meetings, including a 24-10 decision last season.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “He has really good stature in the pocket. He can get hot. He throws those intermediate dig routes as well as anyone can. He’s a very experienced guy, played in big games. He’s a really good quarterback. Really good quarterbacks, players, they’re going to give you problems.” — Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh on Wisconsin quarterback Alex Hornibrook.
