Wisconsin was supposed to be the favorite in the Big Ten West once again, but after losing at home to Iowa and barely escaping 2-4 Nebraska, the Badgers have a lot to prove and some ground to make up in the division. The defense has been very good, but the offense has struggled without star running back Corey Clement. Wisconsin was only able to score six points against Iowa and 23 against a dismal Nebraska pass defense.
How to watch Purdue vs. Wisconsin on TV or online, plus 3 things to know
Both teams need some momentum.
Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
The good news for the Badgers is that Purdue could provide some welcome relief. The Boilermakers hoped to make a jump this year after a dismal first season under Darrell Hazell, but a tough schedule has Purdue sitting at 1-5. The biggest issue is the Boilermakers have been maddeningly inconsistent. They played Michigan State tough in the first week of Big Ten play, falling 24-21, but then allowed 41 points to an otherwise-awful Minnesota offense.
This game means a lot to Purdue from a morale standpoint, as the Boilermakers need to show some improvement. It also means a lot to Wisconsin from a standings point of view, as the loss to Iowa gives the Badgers little margin for error on the way to Indianapolis.
How to watch, stream and listen
TV: Noon ET, Big Ten Network
Online streaming: BTN2GO
Spread: Wisconsin is favored by 24 points.
Make friends: Get to SB Nation’s team blog chats for this game at Bucky’s 5th Quarter for Wisconsin fans and Hammer and Rails for Purdue fans.
Three big things to know
1. Wisconsin can’t seem to find a running game. That seems odd for the Badgers, who always have good running backs, but Corey Clement wasn’t great against Alabama (that’s forgivable), and now that he’s out with a sports hernia, the running game hasn’t gotten off the ground behind Taiwan Deal and Dare Ogunbowale. Maybe that’s a sliver of hope for Purdue?
2. Purdue is still not good. However, the Boilermakers have shown flashes and have the potential to pull off the upset with a big game.
3. Wisconsin will likely win this game. Can Purdue at least be competitive to show things are still going in the right direction?
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