Unlike the last couple of years, people do not talk about Wisconsin’s defense as much as they did in the past couple years. Maybe it’s due to Jim Leonhard being the defensive coordinator versus experienced football guys like Dave Aranda and Justin Wilcox, but the attention isn’t there. Wisconsin’s defense deserves all of the praise after Saturday’s 38-14 win over the ranked Iowa Hawkeyes. The defense pitched a shutout against a team who looked unstoppable last week. Wisconsin continues to pile up impressive victories.

Defense does the damn thing
Let’s not forget this game was 17-14 in the early third quarter thanks to Alex Hornibrook throwing two pick-sixes. Defense did not seem to let it bother them. They kept attacking Iowa in this game. Hawkeyes did not sniff an inch as Wisconsin pulverised them with all 11 bodies on the defensive side of the ball. Wisconsin finished with four sacks, six TFL’s, four quarterback hurries, two fumble recovery, one interception and one touchdown. That’s an amazing afternoon. Leonhard deserves a ton of credit for getting his team prepared for this one.

Turnovers continue to an issue for Wisconsin
Take your pick on which part of Wisconsin’s offense worries you more… Hornibrook throwing interceptions or Jonathan Taylor having a young running back fumbling problem. Either one is not good for the team and might cost them a game here if they’re not careful. Hornibrook has done nothing to show me he’s making improvements on decision-making. The secret is out with Taylor and fumbling. Iowa tried to rip the ball out multiple times. Badgers have to be careful with him back there. It’s not good when you’re holding your breath embracing a turnover every time out.

Where will the CFB Playoff committee slot Wisconsin?
Interesting week for sure for the Badgers. They continue to win while other fell along with some success. Oklahoma and Miami each had very impressive wins that will vault them into the top four. We’re going to see Alabama-Miami-Oklahoma-Clemson although the Tigers did struggle mightily with a three-win Florida State team. The question is where do they slot two-loss Auburn after being Georgia? In my mind, it should be Wisconsin-Auburn-Georgia to round out the top seven, but I’m almost expecting them to keep the Bulldogs at five with Wisconsin six then the Tigers seventh. We shall see what comes out on Tuesday.

Next up
Wisconsin welcomes College Gameday to town for Michigan-Wisconsin. Badgers are looking for their first win against Jim Harbaugh since he took over the program. Wolverines figured out some things recently with new quarterback Brandon Peters actually gives them an offense. This could be a defensive struggle though. Two of the best in the country going at it, and it might be first to 17 wins.

Charlie.