It's almost as though Wisconsin and Nebraska were meant to be college football rivals. That's not meant in a dopey, "they both wear white and red" way, either.
Let us count the ways these two teams matchup perfectly:
- Wisconsin has a big, rugged offensive line and Nebraska physical, power defensive line.
The Badgers have the best interior offensive line in college football with guard Kevin Zeitler and junior center Peter Konz. Both could be taken in the first two rounds of next year's NFL Draft. As per Wisconsin tradition, both are power linemen who get a good push up front. Nebraska counters with relentless defensive tackle Jared Crick who may finally be healthy. Wisconsin left tackle Ricky Wagner will have his hands full with Nebraska defensive end Cameron Meredith and Zeitler gets the task of slowing down Nebraska's Baker Steinkuhler. If you watch one thing in this game, make it the line play when Wisconsin has the ball.
Nebraska/Wisconsin NFL Draft watch notes
- Wisconsin has a big-play NFL wide receiver on its roster, Nebraska has a shutdown No. 1 cornerback.
Nebraska cornerback
came into the season as the top cornerback prospect in the country. He’s only played one game, last week against Wyoming, but it was enough for him to shake loose any rust. He’ll have to be ready today if he matches up against Wisconsin’s Nick Toon. Both players like to get physical, so this could be arguably the week’s premier one-on-one showcase. Toon has great anticipation to make plays in the air.
- Wisconsin likes to run the ball, Nebraska has a linebacker who specializes in flying to the football.
When the Badgers run the ball, Cornhuskers linebacker
will likely be close by. On the season, David has 38 tackles with two for loss. He’s not a physical player, which could hurt him against the powerful Badgers runners. But he’s a sure tackler with good instincts. David could help his draft stock a lot today if he can make a few solo tackles for a minimal gain.
- Both teams wear white and red. Sorry, too stupidly easy. Enjoy the game!
