PLAYERS TO WATCH
–RB Isaiah Bowser had a breakout performance in Saturday’s win at Rutgers, rushing 24 times for 108 yards and two touchdowns, including a five-yard go-ahead score that proved to be the game-winner with 8:12 remaining in the fourth quarter. Bowser all but solidified himself as the go-to option for the Wildcats’ ground attack and should have a similarly healthy volume Saturday against Wisconsin.
–LB Chris Bergin has filled the gap left by injured linebacker Nate Hall quite nicely, compiling 26 tackles in his first three career starts and recording his first career sack last Saturday at Rutgers. With no timetable for Hall’s return, Bergin will look to continue his current pace in his fourth consecutive start against Wisconsin.
–RB Chad Hanaoka supplemented Bowser’s big game against Rutgers with six carries for 26 yards and also caught two passes for 15 yards. After spending most of his career in a practice player and scout team-only role, the senior from Honolulu is poised to ascend the Wildcats’ depth chart at running back after his contributions in last Saturday’s comeback victory.
–K Drew Luckenbaugh took the reins of the kicking game in Northwestern’s 34-31 overtime win over Nebraska Oct. 13 after sophomore Charlie Kuhbander was ruled out with an injury to his kicking leg. Luckenbaugh missed his first career field goal attempt, a 42-yard try near the end of the third quarter but bounced back to hit a 32-yarder with just over two minutes remaining in the game before nailing a 37-yard game winner in overtime. Luckenbaugh converted a 23-yard attempt against Rutgers as well as his lone extra point attempt and seems to be the Wildcats’ main option at kicker for the foreseeable future.
SERIES HISTORY: Wisconsin leads Northwestern 59-35 and has won the two most recent matchups, including last year’s 33-24 win in Madison.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “Paul and his staff do a phenomenal job, and they’re the reason they’ve been so consistent in winning the Big Ten West. They’re consistent in their play. It’s fun to watch every game but this week for me. I’ve got a ton of respect for Paul. We know each other well.” — Head coach Pat Fitzgerald on Wisconsin coach Paul Chryst’s sustained success in the Big Ten’s Western Division
