A week ago, this game seemed like a probable blowout. Northwestern had struggled to a 1-2 record with its only win coming against an FCS team, while Wisconsin had run over Bowling Green and looked like the class of the Big Ten West. The Badgers still might hold that title, but it’s clear they’ll face a formidable test against a Northwestern team that stomped Penn State, 29-6.
How to watch Wisconsin vs. Northwestern: Game guide, TV/streaming, odds
Can the Wildcats upset the Big Ten West favorite after a stunner in Happy Valley?
While the Wildcats' offense still struggled a bit, the NU defense was stronger than it has been in years. Star Penn State quarterback Christian Hackenberg never got settled. But now, Northwestern faces a much stiffer test against a powerful Wisconsin running game. The Badgers have had some slow starts in recent weeks, but they've eventually worn their opponents down. Will that happen again in Evanston? We'll find out Saturday.
How to watch, listen, and stream
Game time: 3:30 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN2
Radio: Badger Sports Network, Northwestern: WGN 720 AM or The Game 87.7 FM
Online streaming: WatchESPN
The numbers
Rankings and records: Wisconsin is 3-1, and the Badgers are ranked 17th in the AP Poll and 16th in the Coaches Poll. Northwestern is 2-2 (1-0 Big Ten) and unranked.
Vegas: Wisconsin opened as a 9.5-point favorite. The Badgers are now an 8-point favorite.
Weather forecast: A high of 54 and a low of 39 with showers possible.
Two things at stake
Wisconsin is the favorite in the Big Ten West, but that could change if the Badges slip up in their first game of the conference season.
If Northwestern gets blown out, then it’s back down to earth after the Penn State game. If the Wildcats keep it close, then there’s still hope for a bowl game. If they win ... are they suddenly division title contenders?
One big matchup
Wisconsin run game vs. Northwestern run defense: Northwestern has had a very good run defense this year, but the Wildcats haven't faced a team like Wisconsin. Melvin Gordon had a monster game against Bowling Green, rushing for 19.5 yards per attempt, and he was solid against LSU, as well. However, this is the best run defense he has faced yet. If he can put up the performance everyone expects, the Badgers will cruise to victory. But if he has a bad day and Wisconsin is forced to throw the ball, Northwestern has a chance to steal the game.
Further reading
Read Bucky’s 5th Quarter for more on Wisconsin and InsideNU for more on Northwestern.
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