Jonathan Taylor struggled in the last two games. He did not do much against Ohio State and also struggled against Illinois. Wisconsin dropped two straight games. But Badgers and Taylor responded in a big way. The Badgers running back rushed for 250 yards leading Wisconsin to victory with a 24-22 win. This game should have been a blowout but the defense allowed Iowa back into this football game. Thankfully for Wisconsin, they were able to hold on late to avoid a disastrous finish.

Player of the Game: Jonathan Taylor – Taylor did not get a touchdown in this game, but he rushed for 250 yards. He had 131 of those yards in the fourth quarter. He broke a huge run as Iowa tried to get the ball back at the end of the game. He is a monster and showed how dominant he can be as running back. Iowa allowed nothing on the ground all year, and Taylor flexed his muscles all game long. This is the second time against a Big Ten team that Taylor rushed for 200+ yards.

Honorable Mention: Quintez Cephus – Strong game from Cephus on the outside on Saturday. Cephus made some great catches including a 27-yard touchdown throw from Jack Coan. He also had a 58-yard grab as well. This is now the third straight game where Cephus had 50+ receiving yards. Badgers are making him more a part of the offense, and that’s a great thing. Badgers are at their best when they have a viable passing option.

One Thing I Liked: Wisconsin didn’t look hungover – Look, I know they’ve been off for a week, but there was no residual feeling from the Ohio State/Illinois games. They came out and punched Iowa right in the mouth. Now, they didn’t finish the way that they probably wanted especially defensively. But for Wisconsin to come out and get up early is a huge statement of the team.

Bowl Projections: Right now, they’re all over the place. Some of that is due to Minnesota’s success and what’s still to come for the Badgers. From ESPN and CBS, there is a matchup with Florida looming on New Year’s Day which would be a good one. Arizona State versus Wisconsin in California would be fun since it’s a Saturday afternoon game. Then the most surprising one is Jerry Palm who puts Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl against Oregon. That would mean that Minnesota would lose two games and miss the Big Ten championship.

Next up: Wisconsin heads to Nebraska for a rivalry showdown with the Cornhuskers. These games have been typically close between the two teams. Wisconsin has won six straight against Nebraska. A big thing that should scare the Badgers is Nebraska needs two wins to get bowl eligible. They’ll likely beat Maryland next week, and they’re going to need to beat Iowa or Wisconsin at home. Against good teams, Cornhuskers have been woeful this season.

Charlie.