Wisconsin Badgers faced off against Penn State for the second straight game. The matchup was a good one the first time these two teams played on Saturday night. Penn State was trying for the rare season sweep against Wisconsin. But that did not happen. Wisconsin had a big second half, unlike what happened on Saturday, and powered past the Nittany Lions winning 72-56. Badgers avoiding looking ahead to their big matchup with Illinois on Saturday and got it done. The Badgers become the fourth Big Ten team with eight conference wins this season.

Player of the Game: Johnathan Davis – We know that ‘Johnny’ likes to be called by his full name which is weird but okay. I can’t imagine going by ‘Charles’ these days after being Charlie for most of my young life but I digress. He provided an awesome spark off the bench for Wisconsin. He scored 17 points making all four threes he attempted. Davis did have six turnovers which is more than usual for a Wisconsin player, but still, he provided the needed spark for the team.

Honorable Mention: Micah Potter – Good game from the senior forward. He finished with 12 points, eight rebounds, and an offensive rating of 138. Potter did a good job in the paint. He did not have that much of an impact in the first meeting on Saturday but made his persence felt offensively in this one.

What went right for Wisconsin? – They showed their teeth defensively: This is quite the response from Wisconsin with a lockdown effort after Penn State dropped 81 against them. They put the clamps on the Nittany Lions espeically in the second half. Wisconsin did not allow a single fast break point. Nittany Lions played into Wisconsin’s hands just like Wisconsin did to Penn State last week.

What went wrong for Wisconsin? – First half was a turnover fest: The home team had 11 turnovers which is uncharateristic of them. Then in the second half, they only had four which is more Wisconsin basketball. That is a jarring number for Wisconsin to start the game. These type of teams are definitely a frustrating one for Wisconsin’s offense.

Next up: The gauntlet for the Badgers begins on Saturday. Starting against Illinois on Saturday afternoon, Wisconsin will play five of their last eight games against teams that are ranked in the top 10 of KenPom. They’ll play six of eight against those ranked in the top 25. It’s not going to be easy for the Badgers.

Charlie.