The Battle for Paul Bunyan Axe started like every other Badger game this season, down early. The defense like they have over the past few games clamped down and did not allow any points in the second half. The defense also caused two turnovers in the fourth quarter to shut down any chance of a comeback. The Gophers were also 5/13 on third-down conversions. It was an impressive defensive performance on the road.
The offense on the other hand was on pretty much all game. Braelon Allen’s ankle didn’t seem to be bothering him at all. In what could be his last game the Wisconsin native did not disappoint the Badger faithful against their greatest rival. He finished the day with 26 carries, 165 yards and two touchdowns. Tanner Mordecai also contributed 69 yards on the ground on 9 carries most on designed runs following Allen as a lead blocker. His passing numbers weren’t impressive but were enough to get the job done. His one interception was his on a Hail Mary at halftime. He was 14 of 22 for 145 yards and two touchdowns.
The win not only brought the axe back to Madison but also kept the Gophers from bowl eligibility.
James