REFLECTIONS ON A TITLE Conor O’Neill got a good look at himself — with rose in mouth — while hoisting part of the Stagg Championship Trophy following the Badgers’ win in the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game. PHOTO BY DAVID STLUKA IN FOCUS

DECEMBER 8, 2011 CONTENTS VOLUME 2, ISSUE 18

20 A WILD ONE FOR THE WIN

50 DEPARTMENTS » THE BIG GUY Frank Kaminsky has provid- 8 LUCAS AT LARGE by Mike Lucas ed low-post help for UW but is learning that the freshman 10 BEHIND THE DESK learning curve can be steep. by Barry Alvarez 12 BY THE NUMBERS Facts and figures on UW 14 ASK THE BADGERS Question of the Week

16 5 THINGS TO WATCH 18 BADGERING 38 Alex Rigsby » DUAL THREATS 64 THIS WEEK IN HISTORY and Montee Soccer claims NCAA crown Ball reflect on a season that 66 THE VOICE few backfield tandems could by Matt Lepay ever hope to replicate.

EDITOR’S NOTE Two for the ages Varsity is published weekly by: Wisconsin Athletic Communications he term “instant classic” gets thrown around a lot in the Kellner Hall, 1440 Monroe St., world of sports. It’s something we’ve grown so accus- Madison, WI 53711 Ttomed to hearing that, maybe, the idea has become a little watered down a little bit. Subscribe to Varsity (On a side note, aren’t all classics “instant?” Don’t we know right away whether a game is going be considered a classic? View All Issues It’s not like it took years to decide “Hey, you know that game where the band ran onto the field? I think that was a classic.” I’m pretty sure anyone that saw “The Play” between Stanford Brian Lucas and Cal in 1982 knew they had a classic on their hands.) Director of Athletic Communications Still, any of the more than 64,000 people inside Lucas Oil Stadium last Saturday can vouch for Wisconsin-Michigan Brian Mason State as an instant classic. A back-and-forth battle befitting a Editor budding rivalry, the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game is one those who watched in person or on Mike Lucas TV will certainly never forget. Lead Writer Depending on which side of Lake Michigan you reside, the reasons may dif- Matt Lepay fer, but the staying power is the same. Columnist Not surprisingly, Badgers fans can thank Russell Wilson and Montee Ball for Drew Scharenbroch the favorable result. Not to take anything Video Production BRIAN away from Shelton Johnson, Jeff Duck- worth or Brad Nortman — seriously, Drew Pittner-Smith MASON thanks guys — but Ball and Wilson’s stars Advertising shined the brightest on the big stage. Per the usual. Contributors Wilson, who was named MVP of the game, defines “instant Karl Anderson, Paul Capobianco, classic.” From the first moments of being around Wilson this Charlie Healy, Patrick Herb, summer, it was clear he exudes qualities that make him spe- Ross LaDue, Diane Nordstrom, cial — on and off the field. His impact on the Badgers’ football Anna Poulter-Hendrickson program is easy to see but difficult to measure. Ball’s season certainly will go down as a classic, one of the Photography best any player — from any program — has enjoyed. His num- David Stluka, Greg Anderson, bers speak for themselves and his consistency has been truly Ross LaDue, Dale Steenberg, remarkable, even through the lens of a program that has seen Neil Ament, Bob Campbell great running backs come through with regularity. Recognition of his accomplishments, however, was less than instant. That’s why, when Ball learned Monday that he Problems or Accessibility Issues? had been named a finalist, it was fun to see [email protected] him still struggling to absorb the news more than an hour after the announcement. Fun not only because of how happy I am for him to get the © 2011 Board of Regents of the much-deserved invitation, but also because I could see just University of Wisconsin System. how appreciative — and humble — Ball was about the honor. All rights reserved worldwide. Ball and Wilson share those traits, and that’s something that will always qualify the duo as “classics” in my book. LUCAS AT LARGE MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM

Series with Ducks not short on drama he last three games between the spotlight with cornerback Oregon and Wisconsin have Based on their mini- Jamar Fletcher — who intercepted Tbeen decided by three, four Harrington three times. and three points and have been series history, the Ducks “I did tend to notice No. 2 impacted by the Super Sub, the and the Badgers will (Fletcher) when he got on the Sprinter and the Polish Rifle. field,’’ Alvarez said. Based on their mini-series his- have a hard act to follow For sheer theatrics, nothing tory — they have met only four in the Rose Bowl, though could top the 1978 matchup be- times — the Ducks and the Badgers everyone anticipates an tween Oregon and Wisconsin. will have a hard act to follow in the With the Badgers trailing 19-7 in Rose Bowl, though everyone antici- offensive shootout. the fourth quarter, Mike Kalasmiki pates an offensive shootout. — the Polish Rifle — engineered The last time they played the one of the most improbable come- world was being introduced to drop at the 28 ended the drive. backs in Camp Randall history. “Sulley” and “Beast Mode” (read: Both teams made a lot of big Coming into the game, Kalas- Brewers and Prince Fielder) in an plays. Soaking in the environment, miki was listed as the No. 3 quar- animated film, “Monsters, Inc.,’’ Wisconsin defensive tackle Wen- terback behind starter John Josten which was released in 2001. dell Bryant said afterward, “It was (who left with a knee injury) and The Super Sub was quarterback like a Rose Bowl-type atmosphere backup Charles Green (who had Jim Sorgi, who started for the in the regular season.’’ been ineffective replacing Josten). injured Brooks Bollinger. The year The 2000 meeting in Madison Kalasmiki was sporting two before, Sorgi came off the bench to was equally entertaining. black eyes and 11 stitches across match stats with in an “What a day by Michael Ben- the bridge of his nose before the overtime loss to Purdue. nett,’’ said Barry Alvarez, then kickoff — the result of having fallen Now he was pitted against Pal UW’s . “Seemed like a switch down the fire escape of his apart- Joey — Oregon’s Joey Harrington. came on. He may have just grown ment three days before the game. Sorgi held his own statistically up to be a great .’’ Kalasmiki had missed most of — 16 of 32 for 231 yards and two Bennett, the Sprinter, rushed 28 his sophomore year with a knee touchdowns — while rallying the times for 290 yards, which includ- injury but had a strong arm. How Badgers three times from deficits ed touchdowns of 59 and 75 yards strong? On a dare before practice, in front of a raucous crowd at Aut- and an 83-yard that set up the he once threw a ball out of the sta- zen Stadium in Eugene. winning score as the Badgers hung dium from field level. But the Heisman-hyped Har- on to beat the Ducks, 27-23. Against the Ducks, he had scor- rington was a little better — 23 of Oregon had just taken the lead ing strikes to Tim Stracka and 48 for 278 yards — and so were the after Matt Smith picked off a Bol- David Charles while leading UW to Ducks (31-28), who extended their linger pass and returned it 47 yards all of its points in the final 10:29 of home winning streak to 21 straight. for a score with 6 minutes and 9 a memorable 22-19 win. UW’s Lee Evans had eight second left. That’s when Bennett “That was one crazy game,’’ Ka- catches for 168 yards; the last of got loose again. lasmiki said. which moved the chains to the “I told my O-line, ‘Give me a Will there be another one be- Oregon 47-yard-line with little over hole and I’m gone’ and they gave it tween the Ducks and the Badgers a minute to play. But a Nick Davis to me,’’ said Bennett, who shared in Pasadena?

8 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 LUCAS AT LARGE BEHIND THE DESK BARRY ALVAREZ • UW DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

Plenty to talk about in New York this year

’ve always enjoyed attending night. I had Big Ten meetings here I really think it would be a hard the National Football Founda- Wednesday. preparation in one week or from Ition awards dinner in New York I’ve run into a lot of people who one Saturday to the next. City. are excited about the Badgers and Having some extra time should Last year was especially mean- the season we’ve had. be a benefit. ingful for obvious reasons. That’s especially true coming off For one thing, you can talk to I felt privileged to be a member our win over Michigan State in the people and see what others have of the 2010 induction class for the Big Ten championship game. done against them. Hall of Fame. The league had to be pleased You want to see how they’ve In general, though, I just like with the type of game that was compensated for Oregon’s speed coming here for this event. and how they’ve subbed. For starters, it’s good for our It seems like you might be better profession to rub shoulders with a I’ve run into a lot of off putting a defense on the field lot of people. You get a chance to and staying with it. That would make numerous contacts over the people who are excited avoid some personnel substitution two or three days in New York. about the Badgers and problems that Oregon can cause. I will visit with coaches and ath- the season we’ve had. I see this as being one of the letic directors from other confer- more entertaining and competitive ences. In fact, I’ve actually sched- I was really proud of games in the BCS rotation. uled some games while I’ve been our guys. To be honest, I don’t like the here in the past. LSU-Alabama rematch. Mostly, you’re reacquainting I understand what people are yourself with people who are in the played last Saturday night. saying about them being the two same business that you are. I really thought Michigan State best teams this season. Lately, I almost feel like I’m a was ready to play. So were we. I hear their argument for playing clearinghouse because my phone I thought they gave us their best the sequel — Oklahoma State’s loss has been ringing off the hook. shot and we answered it. It was like was worse than Alabama’s. I’ve got people calling me look- a couple of heavyweights trading All that being said, Alabama had ing for jobs. They might want me to punches in the middle of the ring. a chance to beat LSU on its home talk to an AD or a head coach. I was really proud of our guys. field and couldn’t do it. I’ve even had some headhunters As you might expect, I’m re- I know it was a heckuva game. calling me to ask me about differ- ally excited to get back to the Rose But I’m not excited about seeing ent coaches. Bowl. I’m excited because it’s an that game again. I would have been There are a lot of openings today opportunity to put a stamp on this more excited to see Oklahoma in college football, and a lot of team and our program. State play LSU. things going on. There are just a lot It’s also exciting to play a quality One way or another, this will of good coaches and good staffs on team like Oregon. Nobody runs an definitely add to the discussion of the market. offense with as much speed as they the plus-one model. There will be a lot of formal and do. If you added OK State and Stan- informal interviewing taking place The good thing is that we’ll have ford to the mix, you’d be closer to in the hotel. a chance to put some time in and crowning a true champion. The awards dinner was Tuesday study their offense. At least this year.

10 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 BEHIND THE DESK BY THE NUMBERS

Ashley Wanland finished 2nd at the Texas Invitational in the 100-yard breaststroke

MEN’S HOCKEY WOMEN’S SWIMMING Head coach Mike Eaves, Ashley Wanland finished the 100-yard 199 now in his 10th season at breast stroke in 1:00.18 at the Texas Invita- Wisconsin, needs just one tional. Her more victory to reach the 200-win mark. Jeff second- Sauer, with 489 wins in 20 seasons, and Bob place time Johnson, with 367 victories in 15 seasons, 1:00.18 was one are the only Badger men’s hockey coaches of three individual NCAA provisional quali- with more. fying times that the Badgers posted at the elite competition last Friday. FOOTBALL With Russell Wilson’s three MEN’S 30 passing touchdowns and Montee Ball’s four total scores 44.5 Through their first eight last Saturday, Wisconsin became the first games, the Badgers are school in NCAA history to have a quarter- off to a suffocating start on the defensive back-running back combo with 30 passing end, holding opponents to a nation-low 44.5 and 30 rushing touchdowns in the same points per game. UW also ranks third in the season. Wilson has thrown for 31 TDs, while nation in opponents’ percentage, Ball has 32 rushing touchdowns among his limiting foes to just 33.0 percent shooting. 38 total scores on the year.

12 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 Ashley Wanland finished 2nd at the Texas Invitational in the 100-yard breaststroke Question of the Week: Ask The How do you plan on BADGERS studying for finals?

KIMBERLY DINH • FRESHMAN • WOMEN’S GOLF “During finals week, I like to start my day by working out. With our indoor facilities nearby in the Kohl , I also practice as a study break during the day and to re- lax. I’ll study with my friends and we’ll change where we study occasionally. While I study, I have to be listening to something or else I’ll doze off. Classical music on Pandora really helps me focus! And finally, I try to go to bed and get up on a pretty regular schedule for the week.”

LUKE JUCKETT • SENIOR • MEN’S ROWING “We’re done with official practice at the end of this week, but we need to keep in shape for our offseason training trip to Texas in early January. We try to come in once or twice a day for the next few weeks just to spin the erg and stay in shape. We go to the Fetzer Center and the library to study a lot. Once official practice is over this week, we are just like normal students that have to go to the gym. Studying isn’t that much different than everyone else.”

BRITTANY AMMERMAN • SOPHOMORE • WOMEN’S HOCKEY “I just study a lot, but usually a group of us from the team will go to Starbucks and study together. We like Starbucks because you can get Christmas in a cup while studying. Also, whenever I have any downtime on the road I’ll pull out the books ’’and study.”

ALAINA TRGOVICH • SENIOR • WOMEN’S TENNIS “Most of my finals are during next week (the last week of classes), so I’m just trying to review all my notes and lecture slides and edit all my papers. Basically, a lot of time spent at the quiet rooms in the Kohl Fetzer Center. I also plan to relieve some stress and take breaks from studying by working out at the SERF.”

14 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

5 THINGS TO WATCH

THURSDAY • 8 PM • ESPN Running for awards Montee Ball is one of three finalists for the , given to the nation’s best running back. Ball, who has rushed for 1,759 yards and 32 touchdowns, joins Alabama’s and Oregon’s LaMi- chael James as finalists. The winner will be revealed on the Home Depot College Football Awards Show on ESPN.

FRIDAY • 7 PM • BTN Facing the best Just four weeks after the Badgers split their series with No. 1 Minnesota at home, the men’s hockey team faces another top-ranked team. Like the Gophers, Minnesota Duluth begins its reign at No. 1 with a visit to Madi- son. Friday’s game will be broadcast live on BTN, while Saturday’s will be shown on TVW and InsideBadgerSports.com outside of Wisconsin.

SATURDAY • 1 PM • BTN Rebels run into town The men’s basketball team welcomes UNLV to the Kohl Center Saturday to close a three-game homstand. Under Bo Ryan, the Badgers are 157-12 at the Kohl Center, and the game against the Runnin’ Rebels will serve as a chance for UW to even the score after UNLV scored a win in last year’s meeting in Las Vegas. Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. on BTN.

SATURDAY • 7 PM • ESPN Striking a pose Montee Ball’s 2011 season is one that fans will remember for years to come. He has scored 38 touchdowns — one shy of the NCAA single- season record — and ranks fourth nationally in rushing yards per game. Saturday, Ball looks to join former Badgers running backs and as a winner of the Heisman Trophy.

SUNDAY • 2 PM • InsideBadgerSports.com Beat the Bulldogs After opening the 2011-12 season with five of its first nine games on the road, the women’s basketball team has four-straight games at home. The homestand opens with Drake on Sunday at 2 p.m. The Badgers are on a 3-1 run and have won two in a row before they have a tough road game Thursday at Kansas.

16 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

Badgering...

ALEX RIGSBY »» WOMEN’S HOCKEY A sophomore goaltender from Delafield, Wis., Alex Rigsby has started every game in net for the women’s hockey team this season. With the second most minutes played among goalies in the nation, she leads the country with a .946 save percentage. Most recently, Rigsby became just the second goalie in program history to record 1,000 saves within the first two years of competition.

Do you have a routine that you go through before each game? “I definitely have a routine, and I think a lot of the girls on the team have a routine as well. Usually when you find something you just want to stick with it, whether it’s warming up the same way or getting dressed the same way. I think the one thing that most people notice about me is that I always carry around a tennis ball. After pregame warmups, off the ice I’ll throw the ball against a wall and do some visualizations.”

You’ve played almost every minute in net this season, do you take a different approach knowing you’re going to start as opposed to not knowing who’s starting each game? “Even when I didn’t know if I was going to be playing or not, I still went into every game the same way and I’d do the same routine. You have to approach the game as if you’re going to be playing, you never know what might happen. Definitely this year it takes a lot of focus to be prepared for every single game.”

What’s been you favorite road-trip memory so far this season? “I think one of the best trips was this last weekend. Traveling home from Mankato and listening to the Big Ten championship football game. It was exciting when they would get a touchdown or an interception. Our whole team was excited and getting pretty pumped up about the Badgers winning it.”

How do you maintain a balance between academics and athletics as finals approach? “When you step into the rink you kind of forget about school and focus about hockey. Even when you’re lifting you have to focus on what you have to do to get better. You just have to balance your time between practices and classes. One of the biggest things is buckling down after practice to study for exams since they’re coming up quick. Especially with this weekend trip to Bemidji State, there will be a lot of studying on the road.”

18 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

ONE SWEET REPEAT WILD WIN MAKES BADGERS BIG TEN CHAMPS AGAIN ONE SWEET REPEAT

WILD WIN MAKES BADGERS BIG TEN CHAMPS AGAIN DAVID STLUKA INAUGURAL BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME A RALLY ROOTED IN A REFUSAL TO LOSE Trailing at halftime again to Spartans, the message was clear in the Badgers’ locker room: Don’t accept losing this game

BY MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM

ollowing Saturday and Kevin. night’s victory over “The Rose Bowl is always special,’’ Michigan State in the Konz said. inaugural Big Ten “The Rose Bowl is always good,’’ championship game, Zeitler added. and Kevin “It’s going to be warm and there are Zeitler each acces- going to be things to do,’’ Konz said. sorized their suits by using a rose for “So many various activities,’’ Zeitler Fa pocket square. added. Standing side-by-side in the UW “Like the arcade; we’re going back locker room, they answered ques- to the arcade,’’ Konz said. tions while morphing into Cheech “Got to go (Big Buck) Hunting; set and Chong. Or Harold and Kumar. records there,’’ Zeitler added. Or maybe they were just being Peter “Phenomenal,’’ Konz said.

22 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 DAVID STLUKA Russell Wilson to cap Wisconsin’s openingdrive. first career touchdown reception ona3-yard pass from first,asJeffThe Badgers hauledinhis Duckworth struck

WISCONSIN 7 1ST QUARTER 10:04 MICHIGAN STATE

0 TITLEBIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME HIGHLIGHTS A look back on the Badgers’ exciting 42-39 win over Michigan State to secure their second-straight Big Ten championship last Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

“Goooooood,’’ Zeitler added. “We knew how to handle it this time,’’ Zeitler There may be some discrepancies on who said. babbled what during the exchange, but this type After the Spartans rocked the Badgers with 22 of whimsical communication is fairly common- unanswered points in the second quarter to take place between Konz and Zeitler. a 29-21 lead, there were some strong words spo- Turning serious, Konz said, “I could have ken at halftime by a few of the seniors. played (Saturday). It was one of those things Patrick Butrym was among them. where if there was a situation that occurred, I “Butrym gave a good one. He got very emo- would have been the first man in.’’ tional, very loud,’’ Zeitler said. Konz injured his ankle at Minnesota and “He just said, ‘You cannot accept this, you missed the Illinois and Penn State games. He cannot accept losing,’’’ Konz related was suited up Saturday and went through the “I really appreciated that,’’ Zeitler said. pregame but did not play against Michigan State. “It really pumped everyone up,’’ Konz said. Will Konz be ready for Oregon? How would Butrym describe what took place? “Absolutely,’’ he said without hesitation. “It was a very spirited conversation,’’ he said Turning serious, Zeitler said, “Those two softly. games in the middle of our schedule were just What was his message? heart-breaking, gut-wrenching and we did not “As dumb and simple as it sounds, it was about want that to happen again.’’ playing football,’’ Butrym said. “And we weren’t He was referencing the October road losses at doing that — guys were hanging their heads (in Michigan State and Ohio State. the second quarter).

24 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 TITLE DAVID STLUKA DAVID

WISCONSIN MICHIGAN STATE

Michigan State answered with a score on its first drive, but 14 7 the Badgers came back with a 6-yard TD run by Montee Ball 3:44 — all set up by Ball’s 32-yard pass to Wilson (above). 1ST QUARTER BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

“With those back-to-back losses, we could have easily folded as a team,’’ Bradie Ewing said. “But I thought this game was kind of a snapshot of our sea- son. Some ups, some downs. We faced some adversity. But we kept fighting and we stayed true to the plan.”

“It was like, ‘Look, we’re only down by eight “The senior leadership really stepped up,’’ points. It’s very manageable. We’re in a better said. situation now than we were at halftime the last “We fed off the seniors,’’ Marcus Cromartie two times that we played them.’’’ said. In 2010, the Badgers trailed by 10 points, 20- Shelton Johnson was searching for just the 10. They lost 34-24. right word to describe this team and his team- In October, the Badgers trailed by nine points, mates. 23-14. They lost 37-31. “Resilient,’’ Johnson finally said. “That’s the They would not lose on this night in Indy. only word that comes to mind when you think of “The guys were optimistic at halftime,’’ said this team. Resiliency is the best term to describe Bradie Ewing. “That’s what is great about this us. team — everyone had faith that we were going “We were not going to leave this stadium with to come back and win. There was no doubt in a loss.’’ anyone’s mind.’’ Call it a will to win. Or a refusal to lose. “We’ve been in that situation before and we “It’s just the way we are trained,’’ said Josh knew how to respond,’’ Jeff Duckworth said. Oglesby. “We know it’s going to be a physical, “There was no panic, but there was definitely a four quarter game. And we’re all in. That shows sense of urgency.’’ the stick-to-itiveness and perseverance of this

26 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 NEIL AMENT

WISCONSIN MICHIGAN STATE

It didn’t take long for Ball to find the end zone from 6 yards 21 7 out again thanks to a fumble forced by Conor O’Neill and 3:12 recovered by Jacob Pedersen on MSU’s ensuing kick return. 1ST QUARTER BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

“Resilient,’’ Shelton Johnson said. “That’s the only word that comes to mind when you think of this team. Resiliency is the best term to describe us. We were not going to leave this stadium with a loss.’’

team.’’ “With those back-to-back losses, we could “The second half was a testament to our lead- have easily folded as a team,’’ Ewing said. “But I ership and toughness,’’ said. “We thought this game was kind of a snapshot of our under-performed in the first half and had a lot of season. mistakes. But they were playing well, too.’’ “Some ups, some downs. We faced some ad- A television anchor asked Borland if it felt versity. But we kept fighting and we stayed true good to get some revenge on Michigan State. to the plan. It’s such a blessing to be going back Pausing to measure his response, Borland (to Pasadena).’’ said, “Yeah, it does. Revenge feels good.’’ While Antonio Fenelus was parading around A few feet away, Aaron Henry reiterated, “This with the Big Ten championship trophy in the was a game of redemption. That’s what we were locker room, Cromartie grinned and said, “After calling it pretty much. all we’ve been through this year, it was the per- “We looked at it as an opportunity to come fect ending.’’ back and redeem ourselves.’’ Almost … By any word, or any account, there was a “Now all we have to do,’’ Cromartie said, “is go strong sense of fulfillment. out and win the Rose Bowl.”

28 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 DAVID STLUKA DAVID

WISCONSIN MICHIGAN STATE

The Spartans had all the momentum after back-to-back 21 22 scores and two-point conversion, but Shelton Johnson’s inter- 8:37 ception helped slow the bleeding in the second quarter. 2ND QUARTER INAUGURAL BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME SEQUEL WORTHY OF TITLE OF ‘CLASSIC’ Ironic twists help lift Wisconsin to Big Ten title over Michigan State in fantastic rematch of one of season’s best games

COMMENTARY BY MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM

aybe no one should have straight at Spartan Stadium; Wisconsin had won been surprised by anoth- 16 in a row at Camp Randall Stadium. er instant (replay) classic Both had the proverbial chip on their shoul- between Wisconsin and der. The Spartans felt like they should have been Michigan State. in Pasadena last year; the Badgers felt like they Both had won 21 of should have been in overtime in the teams’ last their last 25 games, both had evolved around meeting. Mtheir talented seniors; the Spartans were the On top of that, Wisconsin felt jilted by fans winningest class in school history and the Bad- that jumped off the bandwagon after back-to- gers the second-winningest group ever at UW. back, gut-wrenching losses on the road at Michi- Both were saving their best football for last. gan State and Ohio State; the Spartans felt jilted Michigan State was 13-3 in November under by the odds-makers that made them a - Mark Dantonio, and Wisconsin was 19-2 in digit underdog for the Big Ten championship regular-season games after Nov. 1 under Bret game. Bielema. That was the backdrop to the sequel, which Both had established their surpremacy on far exceed The Hangover Part II in anyone’s ex- their home turf. Michigan State had won 14 pectations.

30 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 DAVID STLUKA DAVID

WISCONSIN MICHIGAN STATE

Backed into a third-and-17 after working into Michigan State 28 29 territory, Wilson found Jared Abbrederis wide open in the 9:13 end zone for a 42-yard TD pass that put UW back in the game. 3RD QUARTER BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME REACTION Karl Anderson of UWBadgers.com gets locker room reaction from senior QB Russell Wilson and sophomore LB Chris Borland following the Badgers’ 42-39 win over Michigan State.

Fittingly, there were two instances of poetic Wisconsin in their road losses, this not only justice. served to heal those wounds, but brought a form The first was a booth review after a Kirk Cous- of closure — for now — to UW’s season-long ad- ins pass to Keshawn Martin on the boundary. ventures and misadventures on special teams. On a third-and-8 from the Michigan State 39, Cousins had a chance to keep the drive alive by Badgers bounce back in second half running for the first down. Instead, he pulled After a disastrous second quarter in which the up and fired a high pass to Martin, who had one Spartans exploded for 22 unanswered points and foot — or toe at least — down before going out of outgained the Badgers by a margin of 208-(mi- bounds. nus-4), the first series of the third quarter was That was the ruling on the field. Upon further crucial in setting the tempo for the second half. review, the call was overturned — not unlike the There were many things said at halftime by Spartans’ Hail Mary in their win in East Lansing. some of Wisconsin’s seniors, including defen- There was also poetic justice on the play that sive tackle Patrick Butyrm, who challenged his sealed Wisconsin’s victory and Michigan State’s teammates by decrying the Badgers’ first-half ef- fate on this night. fort as unacceptable. Isaiah Lewis ran into Badgers punter Brad First-down runs had been the bane of the Bad- Nortman, erasing a punt return by Martin that gers’ defense in the first half and, when Wiscon- went all the way down to the Wisconsin 3-yard sin tackled Martin for a 1-yard loss on the first line. play of the third quarter, it was a positive step Since two blocked punts had conspired against toward taking back the momentum.

32 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 DAVID STLUKA DAVID

WISCONSIN MICHIGAN STATE

Once MSU answered with a long TD pass of its own, the 34 36 Badgers countered with a 5-yard shovel pass from Wilson to 13:25 Ball that kept it a one-score game in the fourth quarter. 4TH QUARTER BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

An even bigger play was Brendan Kelly’s tack- As memorable as Jeff le-for-loss on third-and-1. In the first half, the Spartans had converted on 4 of 6 third downs Duckworth’s touchdown — a common thread in UW’s last two losses to in the first quarter was Michigan State. The Badgers needed a defensive stop and got — it was his first career one from Kelly. The offense followed suit with a score — he came up with touchdown drive. That stop and score helped exorcise the sec- an even bigger play in ond-quarter demons and delivered a statement the fourth quarter. that the Badgers were physically and emotion- ally prepared to take whatever punch the Spar- tans threw — while throwing some haymakers of their own. Ball deserves a call Duckworth surprises, Wilson doesn’t For over 20 years, I was the state representa- I’m not sure anyone had Jeff Duckworth in tive for the Heisman Trophy committee. My job their pool for the first player to score a touch- entailed nominating people to vote for the Heis- down in Big Ten championship game history. As man and making sure they met specific criteria memorable as that TD was — it was Duckworth’s from year to year. This summer, I decided that first career score — he came up with an even big- I needed to make a decision on my status, and I ger play in the fourth quarter. gave up both my title and my Heisman vote. On a fourth-and-6 from the Michigan State I did not want to put the Heisman committee 43, Russell Wilson lofted pass that seemed to in any type of compromising position regarding hang in the air forever. When it finally came what could have been a potential conflict of in- down, Duckworth had positioned himself be- terest based on my employment with UWBad- tween Michigan State’s safeties, Trenton Robin- gers.com. son and Isaiah Lewis, to make a clutch grab on Trust me when I say I had no idea that the Bad- the MSU 7-yard line. gers would have not one, but two, serious can- Duckworth filled a void created when Nick didates to be in the Heisman discussion. That’s Toon had to leave the game with an injury. That what Russell Wilson and Montee Ball have been catch led to a Montee Ball rushing touchdown — and should be. and a successful two-point conversion as Wilson It would have been an injustice if Ball wasn’t found Jacob Pedersen on a dart to the end zone. invited to New York to be part of the Heisman It was so typical of Wilson’s season, extending ceremony because he has done everything nec- a play with his mobility in the pocket. essary to put himself on a level with any of the Another example of Wilson’s athleticism was other great running backs in the country, includ- his third-quarter heave to Jared Abbrederis. ing Alabama’s Trent Richardson. Feeling the pressure of blitzing cornerback If anyone saw Erin Andrews’ interview with Johnny Adams, Wilson used a nifty spin move Ball on College GameDay, they had to be sold on to avoid a sack despite getting raked across the his presence and overall makeup. It sold Montee face by Adams on a play ruled a personal foul. the person before Montee the player, and that It was vintage Wilson. might merit a trip to New York by itself.

34 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 JOE KOSHOLLEK JOE KOSHOLLEK

WISCONSIN MICHIGAN STATE

Call it poetic justice, but the Badgers’ version of a Hail Mary 42 39 on fourth-and-6 settled into Jeff Duckworth’s arms and set 3:45 up Montee Ball’s game-winning touchdown one play later. 4TH QUARTER

BY MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM CATCH THEM IF YOU CAN DUO OF WILSON AND BALL CAPPING A SEASON FEW TANDEMS CAN HOPE TO MATCH BY MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM CATCH THEM IF YOU CAN DUO OF WILSON AND BALL CAPPING A SEASON FEW TANDEMS CAN HOPE TO MATCH MONTEE BALL & RUSSELL WILSON

aturday night’s postgame interviews extended well into Sunday morning for Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson and tailback Montee Ball. The media blitz was understandable given their impact on the UW’s sea- son and the Big Ten championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium. “I’m not sure how many interviews I had,’’ Wilson said. “But there were a bunch of them.’’ This really was a marathon, not a sprint, for college football’s most potent one-two Spunch. “It was,’’ Wilson agreed, “but it was a good experience. We didn’t leave (Lucas Oil) un- til about two in the morning and, when we got back to the hotel, there were hundreds of Wisconsin fans. “That was a pretty awesome experience, too.’’ Wilson and Ball hung out with family and friends before turning in. When they woke later Sunday morning, they each had a fresh perspective. “I thought, ‘We’re going to the Rose Bowl,’’’ Wilson said. “I had a huge smile on my face.’’ “Honestly,’’ Ball said, “my first thought was, ‘Wow, we did it. Back-to-back Rose Bowls.’’’ Both had a genuine appreciation for how far this Badger team had traveled. “After all the excitement and the screaming and the yelling from the night before,’’ Ball said, “it finally sunk in that morning when I had a chance to think back to what a great season we had.’’ That realization also greeted Wilson after a few hours of sleep. “After it pretty much sunk in,’’ he said, “I realized how blessed we were to persevere and overcome the adver- sity that we had.’’

* * * “We’re friends and I was really joking around After completing 17 of 24 passes for 187 yards with Russell,’’ Ball said. “All jokes aside, I then and three touchdowns, Wilson was named the told him, ‘It was well deserved. In the fourth Most Valuable Player of the conference’s inau- quarter you showed everyone who you are.’’’ gural title game. That display actually went beyond the fourth “We all know what he’s done for us this year quarter. On three of the biggest plays of the sec- and how good of a person he is,’’ said Ball, who ond half, Wilson showed everyone who he is — rushed for 137 yards and accounted for four and that is a difference-maker at quarterback. scores. “I was really glad to see him win the Play No. 1: Taking a Punch and MVP.’’ Delivering One, too. But the playful Ball wanted to have a little On UW’s first series of the third quarter, the fun with his teammate. So he teased Wilson Badgers were in a hole: third-and-17 from the about how he had battled on equal terms for MSU 42. Trailing 29-21, they needed to take that MVP and rightfully deserved the honor. advantage of a rare defensive stop.

40 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 CATCH THEM IF YOU CAN

Wilson’s intense film study paid dividends move on Adams. when he dropped back to pass. “That’s instinctive,’’ he said. “That’s not “From watching a lot of film on them (the planned out. That’s to escape and keep the play Spartans), you understand what their guys are alive.’’ doing,’’ he said. “As I dropped back, I looked at What happened next, Wilson said, was “from the safeties and I could tell that he was coming an understanding of the offense and knowing on the blitz.’’ where the guys are going to be and realizing we Wilson was talking about Michigan State have some receivers downfield.’’ cornerback Johnny Adams, a first-team All-Big Despite his running ability, Wilson reiterat- Ten selection, who was blitzing off the right ed, “I’m always looking to throw the ball first.’’ edge of the UW’s offensive line. Adams was In his mind, Wilson was processing where unblocked. Jared Abbrederis was going to be. “I was still trying to sit in there (the pocket),’’ “I went through my progressions,’’ he said, Wilson said. “Then all of a sudden I realized “and as I was escaping (Adams) I was still try- that I had to make move on him just to get out ing to keep my eyes downfield. Abby was the of the pocket. He got my nose pretty good.’’ second guy (in his progression) and I drove him Adams went high on Wilson and raked his the ball.’’ face, resulting in a 15-yard personal foul. Abbrederis caught the perfectly-thrown pass “And a fractured nose,’’ Wilson said. “But it in the end zone for a touchdown. wasn’t pretty in the first place. I broke it once “Man, we expect those types of plays out of before when I was in the sixth grade and I got Russell because that’s what he has been doing by a ball in the nose.’’ since Day One,’’ Ball said. “But it’s still crazy Wilson avoided the sack with a little spin how to see him do it.’’

41 MONTEE BALL & RUSSELL WILSON

“It didn’t seem that long to me,’’ Wilson said of his fourth-down pass to Duck- worth “It’s real time and everything happens so fast. I had a feeling that he was going to come down with it. That’s why I went to him.’’

Play No. 2: Hail Russell, not Mary. State’s Isaiah Lewis. The other was Trenton With less than four minutes left in the game, Robinson. the Badgers appeared to be down to their last “I saw the one safety come over,’’ Duckworth gasp and snap. Trailing 39-34, they were facing said, “and I figured with the ball in the air that a fourth-and-6 from the MSU 43. long that somebody else was coming over; the Wilson again when through his progressions other safety.’’ while retreating. The pass seemed to hang in the air forever. “I was looking at Abbrederis first — one on “Didn’t seem that long to me,’’ Wilson said. one — running an inside dig route,’’ he said. “It’s real time and everything happens so fast. “Reading the dig, Abby was covered up. Escap- I had a feeling that he was going to come down ing the pocket, I knew I had to get a throw off with it. That’s why I went to him.’’ or try to run it. Again while he’s extending the play in the “They were pursuing quickly. I put a foot in pocket, he’s reading the defense. the ground and saw Jeff (Duckworth) going to In this context, it had little in common with the back corner — that’s where I knew he was that Hail Mary fluke in East Lansing. going and I drove him the ball.’’ “I saw that their DB had his back turned,’’ This was not by chance that Wilson got the Wilson said. “That’s something we talk about all pass off. the time. If a guy’s back is turned, you have to “A positive,’’ he said, “is my ability to go attack the football. Duck came up with a big- through the progressions and extend plays time catch.’’ while still looking down the field for receivers. Play No. 3: One for the Money (Ball), That gives us an ability to make plays a lot of Two for the Show (Stopper). teams can’t make.’’ Following Duckworth’s clutch reception, Here’s how Duckworth saw it from the other Ball scored on a seven-yard touchdown run. end. The Badgers had failed on an earlier two-point “It was a high corner route and I had a man conversion when the pass was deflected by Jerel outside of me,’’ he said. “My route wasn’t run Worthy. that great actually and that’s why I wasn’t that Michigan State’s All-Big Ten defensive tackle open. But Russell gave me a chance to make a — Worthy — was also in position to foil yet play. another two-point conversion following Ball’s “He does such a great job of finding the open score that pushed Wisconsin into a 40-39 lead. receiver.’’ This time, Worthy got penetration across the One of the pass defenders was Michigan line of scrimmage.

42 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 “We all know what he’s done for us this year and how good of a person he is,’’ said Ball of Wilson. “I was really glad to see him win the MVP.’’ MONTEE BALL & RUSSELL WILSON

“The crazy thing is that I didn’t see the completion,’’ Ball said of his throw to Wilson. “I got nailed right after I re- leased the pass. I just remember throw- ing the ball and seeing a green jersey right in my face.”

“Worthy was coming after me and I was just laughing. “I’m just kidding. It was a perfect ball, trying to make a play,’’ Wilson said. “I knew we right on the money, he couldn’t throw it any had to get the ball into the end zone. Escaping better.’’ Worthy, I found Jacob Pedersen and drove him Adams, the corner to that side of the field, the ball.’’ bite on the run fake. Pedersen emerged from a gridlock of green “He (Adams) wasn’t going to catch me,’’ Wil- jerseys to make the two-point catch. son said. “But that other safety (Robinson) was “With Russell you have to stay alive as a going to smack me pretty good if the ball wasn’t receiver,’’ Pedersen said, “because he makes on the money.’’ so many plays running around back there (the What did the play look like from Ball’s eyes? pocket) with his feet. “The crazy thing is that I didn’t see the com- “When you’re in the red zone, there are going pletion,’’ he said. “All I saw was the defender to be defenders all over the place. Russell is (Adams) trailing Russell, so I knew I had to get always talking to us about attacking the football the ball over the top and up in the air. and that’s what I did.’’ “I got nailed right after I released the pass. I That attacking mode becomes a part of ev- had no idea who hit me. I just remember throw- eryone’s mindset on offense. “It’s having the ing the ball and seeing a green jersey right in mentality,’’ Wilson said, “of attacking, scoring my face. touchdowns and being successful.’’ “Right after the play, I told Russell, ‘I don’t see how you quarterbacks do it. I took a helmet * * * right in the chest and that guy fell on me with Late Monday morning, Ball sat through all his weight. It hurt.’ a lengthy interview with a Chicago Tribune “Plus, I had so much to think about before I sportswriter. Wilson was also interviewed dur- even threw the ball. I had to catch the toss and ing a film session. Both were part of a photo op make it look like I was going to run it. Then for the newspaper. I had to find their defenders and find Russell One of the subjects that was broached was downfield. Ball’s pass completion to Wilson; the second “I have a lot more respect now for quarter- of the year. The first went for 25 yards and a backs.’’ touchdown against Indiana. This one was good Ball confided that he wouldn’t trade places for 32. with Wilson. Knowing all the hits that Ball takes “I will grade Montee’s pass by saying it was on every run, Wilson said, “I wouldn’t trade better than his Indiana pass,’’ said Wilson, places with him, either.’’

44 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 “We always talk about ‘Being great all the time.’ Montee’s work ethic and ability to make things happen is pretty impressive. I couldn’t be hap- pier for him,” Wilson said. DAVID STLUKA DAVID MONTEE BALL & RUSSELL WILSON DAVID STLUKA

Oh, yes he would. Later Monday, it was an- “I may leave,’’ Ball said if he hears what he nounced that Ball was one of the five finalists wants to hear from his pro evaluation and that’s for the 2011 Heisman Trophy meaning that he a first or second round projection. “But I’d hon- would be traveling to New York City for the estly love to come back and play another year.’’ award presentation. The decision-making process will be shared. “Obviously, I’d love to win it, too — it’s a “Other than myself and what I feel would be competitive thing,’’ Wilson said. “But I’d really the right decision for me,’’ Ball said, “my par- love one of my teammates, Montee, to win the ents will help me make that decision. They’ve Heisman. I’m never shocked by what he does to been behind me 100 percent the entire way. be honest. “Obviously, too, they’re my parents. They’ve “We always talk about ‘Being great all the never steered me wrong. I love them for every- time.’ Montee’s work ethic and ability to make thing they’ve done.’’ things happen is pretty impressive. I couldn’t Ball emphasized that he still has some unfin- be happier for him. ished business in the Rose Bowl. “It’s been a pleasure playing with him this “The most satisfying thing for me this sea- season.’’ son,’’ he said, “has been playing for this team At two o’clock Monday afternoon, Ball had no and seeing us coming together after those two idea whether he would be invited to the Apple. road losses at Michigan State and Ohio State. “Obviously, I’d be a little disappointed be- “A lot of other teams might have crumbled, cause growing up it was my dream (to win the but we found a way to stick together. What a Heisman),’’ he said. “But the only thing I can great story we’ve become in many ways. control is preparing myself for Oregon.’’ “And it’s not over. We’re blessed to play in a The Big Ten championship game MVP and Rose Bowl.’’ the Heisman finalist have one more game to Wilson has a long-stemmed rose sitting in his play together against the Ducks. Wilson, a kitchen. Ball has as long-stemmed rose sitting senior, will move on to the NFL. Ball, a junior, on the window sill next to his bed. has that option. Sweet dreams are made of these.

46 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

TITLE

MEN’S BASKETBALL SIZE MATTERS A 6-foot-11 center, Frank Kaminsky has provided low-post depth for the Badgers this season but, like any freshman, he’s finding out the college learning curve can be steep

BY MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM

n sizing up the challenge that North Carolina’s 7-foot Tyler Zeller and 6-10 John Henson would pose for 6-11 freshman Frank Kaminsky, UW associate head coach Greg Gard smiled warily. “That’s about as good of an education as you can get,” Gard said. “This might be a PhD education. But no matter what happens, he’ll Ilearn from it and take the positives to get better.” Kaminsky wound up playing 12 minutes against the Tar Heels in Chapel Hill last week. Despite the intimidating environment and matchups, he didn’t back down from the more experienced “bigs.” While picking up three fouls, he also scored three points. “It’s been a big adjustment from high school,” said Kaminsky, an All-Stater at in Lisle, Ill. “I learned a lot about how tough defense can be at the D-I level.”

51 FRANK KAMINSKY

That could be taken two ways: Kaminsky tant coach Lamont learned how tough it can be to score against Paris. “He has a quality defenses, and he learned how tough it very good touch can be to play quality defense against elite of- around the basket fensive players. and a good feel for Against Marquette, he was on the floor for the game.” only five minutes. Or just long enough to realize Almost every- why there was such a discrepancy in - one who has come ing. “They really get up fast,” he said. into contact with Reflecting on the skill level of both the Tar Kaminsky says the Heels and the Golden Eagles, Kaminsky conced- very same thing. ed that they were “some of the best athletes I’ve He has a good ever played against.” feel for the game. That’s part of his ongoing education. Expanding on “The biggest thing for Frank is to make sure that point, Paris defensively that he’s a presence,” Gard said. “Frank has a said, “Frank has a “He’s got to make sure that he can anchor the tremendous feel for middle and control the glass the best that he can tremendous what we want to do in there. feel for what we as a team, and for “His basketball IQ is really helping him in want to do as a what’s a good shot terms of understanding angles and the hows team,” assistant and a bad shot. and the whys of playing post defense. He’s get- “Most important- ting better at anticipating actions and beating coach Lamont ly, he has a feel for people to spots. Paris said. “He what he’s good at, “His base is good and he has pretty strong has a feel for and what he’s not as legs. He’s hard to move. He frustrated some of what he’s good good at it – and he BYU’s post players. He obviously had his hands tries to steer clear filled with Zeller and Henson.” at, and what from those types of Both Tar Heels were named to the Wooden he’s not as good things.” Award preseason list. at it — and he What does having “I really didn’t know what to expect,” Kamin- tries to steer a “feel for the game” sky said of his introduction to . mean to Kaminsky? “I knew there was a possibility of redshirting if clear from those “It means under- I didn’t play as well as I could at the start of the types of things.” standing what to do year. in the heat of the “I was ready for anything that was going to moment,” he said. happen whether it was a redshirt or getting min- It was part of his utes like I am. All the coaches have helped and upbringing. I’m learning from Jared Berggren every day.” “I feel like I know what to do in most situa- Berggren took a different path than Kaminsky tions,” he said. by redshirting as a freshman. His primary teacher has been his father, Frank “The things that we thought Frank would be Kaminsky Sr. good at it, he has been good at,” said UW assis- “I don’t know where I’d be without him,” he

52 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 SIZE MATTERS DAVID STLUKA

acknowledged. “Being my coach and mentor, he “I really didn’t know what to taught me so much when I was younger. He real- expect,” Kaminsky said. “I was ly wanted me to be where I am today. I did, too.” As a player, Frank Kaminsky Sr. averaged 19 ready for anything that was go- points over four seasons at Lewis College (Ro- ing to happen, whether it was a meoville, Ill.) and received NAIA All-American redshirt or getting minutes like recognition. I am.” Kaminsky later extended his playing career to include a 15-year run with Marathon Oil. In fact, he was on the roster in the early ’90s when Frank. “He told me to always be aggressive no Marathon was a regular exhibition opponent of matter what. the Badgers. “He still tells me that today. He thinks that I’m As a head coach, Frank Kaminsky Sr. had stops not aggressive enough and he lets me know when at Glenbard West High School, the University of I should be more aggressive. He says if you’re St. Francis and York High School. tentative, people will run all over you.” Kaminsky was a co-founder and coach of the Frank Kaminsky Sr. was present for both the Chicago Challengers women’s basketball team. North Carolina and Marquette games. Afterward, He was also a player-coach on the Challengers he reminded his son, “If things don’t turn out in men’s team. your favor, there will always be tomorrow.” “My dad was my coach from fourth grade to my It seems like only yesterday that the Kamin- freshman year in high school,” said the younger sky’s were playing one-on-one. A few years ago,

53 FRANK KAMINSKY

“I can understand the plays and what I should do on the plays,” Kaminsky said. “We’re still fig- uring it out and still learning every day.”

the younger Kaminsky was 6-6 and giving away three or four inches to the elder Kaminsky. “My dad is still playing today in a 50 and over league,” Frank Kaminsky said. “It got pretty in- tense, too (when they last played). And it didn’t turn out well in my favor.” Having a coach in the family definitely helped shape Frank Kaminsky’s game. Although he aver- aged only 14 points during his senior year, he was still an impact player on a very good Benet team. The college recruiters were attracted to his skill set and savvy. Those skills were developed at an early age in the company of his dad. And now they’re being honed as a true freshman. “He can shot fake and put the ball on the floor from outside,” Paris said. “And he shoots the ball

DAVID STLUKA DAVID legitimately. He’s not a guy who just makes it ev- ery now and then.” Physically, he’s going through a transition to a much different game at the college level. “Frank needs to get stronger,” Gard said, “and he will over the course of time.” Kaminsky has drawn some “workmanlike” comparisons to a former UW player, Charlie Wills, who was a valuable contributor on Bo Ry- an’s first team with the Badgers. “I know where the ball should be,” Kaminsky said of his adjustment phase to the offense and defense. “I can understand the plays and what I should do on the plays.” Still, there have been some early growing pains for Kaminsky and guard Traevon Jackson, the other member of the UW freshman class that is not redshirting this season. “We’re still figuring it out,” Kaminsky said, “and still learning every day.”

54 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

INSIDE MEN’S BASKETBALL BY PATRICK HERB @BadgerMBB

SCHEDULE Last Five Nov. 25 Bradley W, 66-43 Nov. 26 BYU W, 73-56 Nov. 30 at #5 N. Carolina L, 57-60 Dec. 3 #16 Marquette L, 54-61

This Week Wed. Green Bay W, 70-42 Saturday UNLV 1 p.m.

Next Five Dec. 13 at Milwaukee 7 p.m. Dec. 15 Savannah State 7 p.m. Dec. 23 Miss. Valley St. 4:30 p.m. Dec. 31 at Nebraska 8 p.m. Jan. 3 Iowa Noon

Back on winning track » Wisconsin (7-2) shook off a two- game losing streak with a convinc- ing 70-42 win over Green Bay on Wednesday. Senior Jordan Taylor posted his second career double-double with 15 points and a career-high 10 as- sists. Even more impressive, Tay- lor dished the 10 dimes without Badgers defense simply a single turnover, improving his -to-turnover ratio to 4.25 on suffocating opponents the season — fifth in the NCAA. Wisconsin defending like ‘1985 Bears’ Better Berggren » Junior Jared Berggren is starting efense is the foundation Wisconsin is limiting to gain a reputation of out-play- D of Wisconsin basket- foes to an NCAA-best 44.2 ing opposing big men. In three of ball, and the 2011-12 season points per game. UW also the last four games, Berggren has is off to a typically suffocat- ranks third in the nation in posted big numbers against BYU’s ing start. field goal percentage defense Brandon Davies, UNC’s Tyler “Wisconsin defensively is a (.329). Zeller and Green Bay’s Alec Brown. juggernaut with the numbers Dating back to last season, Berggren has scored in double they’re putting up on folks,” UW has held 13 consecutive figures six times this season. He ESPN’s said opponents to 65 or fewer also ranks fourth in the Big Ten recently. “They’re the ’85 points, a streak no team in with 1.7 blocks per game and fifth Chicago Bears right now.” the NCAA can match. with 1.9 steals per game.

56 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

INSIDE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL BY DIANE NORDSTROM @BadgerWBBall

SCHEDULE Last Five Nov. 23 at BYU L, 59-77 Nov. 25 vs. Montana State W, 71-61 Nov. 26 at Colorado L, 48-58 Nov. 30 Boston College W, 58-50 Dec. 5 Saint Louis W, 48-46

This Week Thursday at Kansas 7 p.m. Sunday Drake 2 p.m.

Next Five Dec. 23 #21 Green Bay 7:30 p.m. Dec. 30 #13 Ohio State 7 p.m. Jan. 2 #17 Penn State 12/2 p.m. Jan. 5 at #12 Purdue 5 p.m. Jan. 8 at Illinois 2 p.m.

Stopping the long ball » In the last two games, UW op- ponents are shooting just 13 per- cent (3-of-23) from 3-point range, which moves Wisconsin into the Big Ten lead for 3-point defense at 22.6 percent. Boston College made just three 3-pointers, shooting .200 Badgers stick together (3-of-15). Saint Louis was 0-for-8 from behind the arc, season lows to continue improving for makes and percentage for a UW Wisconsin riding two-game win streak opponent this season.

Career season for Thomas hings are looking up for straight games, both at home, » Senior Ashley Thomas had to wait Tthe women’s basketball to improve to 4-5 on the year. her turn to make an impact on the team. After a tough season- “This team really sticks team. After starting seven games opening streak in which the together,” said coach Bobbie as a freshman, the 6-2 post had Badgers played seven games Kelsey. “They don’t get down not earmed another start until get- in the 15 days, UW got some on each other. When I’m ting the call in all nine games this much needed rest with only getting on them and things season. Thomas ranks third on the five games in the month of aren’t going well, they stick team with 7.8 points per game, in- December. together.” cluding a career-high 14 against For the first time this sea- Hopefully, that team Saint Louis. She added career highs son, Wisconsin has won two chemistry continues. of seven rebounds and 39 minutes.

58 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

INSIDE MEN’S HOCKEY BY PAUL CAPOBIANCO @BadgerMHockey

SCHEDULE Another No. 1 set to Last Five Nov. 12 #1 Minnesota L, 4-1 visit the Kohl Center Nov. 18 at #5 Colo. College L, 4-2 Badgers split with No. 1 team in November Nov. 19 at #5 Colo. College L, 4-1 Nov. 25 Mercyhurst W, 7-2 Nov. 26 Mercyhurst W, 5-2 or the second time this peat performance from that season, the newly an- Friday game against Minne- This Week F Friday Minnesota Duluth 7 p.m. nointed No. 1 team in the sota. Saturday Minnesota Duluth 8 p.m. nation will arrive at the Kohl Minnesota Duluth’s last Center on a hot streak. visit to the Kohl Center last Next Five Back on Nov. 11, then- November was also with the Dec. 31 U.S. Under-18 Team 8 p.m. No. 1 Minnesota — winners Bulldogs carrying the No. Jan. 6 RIT 7 p.m. Jan. 7 RIT 7 p.m. of four straight games and 1 designation. The Badgers Jan. 13 at Minnesota State 7:30 p.m. owners of a 9-1-0 record — fell twice that weekend, with Jan. 14 at Minnesota State 7 p.m. arrived at the Kohl Center. both losses coming in over- The Badgers managed to time. needs one victory for his 200th ca- cool the Gophers with a Fri- The Mike Eaves-led Bad- reer win. He’ll join Jeff Sauer (489 day night victory, before fall- gers have been No. 1 killers, victories in 20 seasons) and Bob ing on Saturday. going 9-5-2 against the No. Johnson (367 wins in 15 seasons). This week’s opponent, 1 team in the country since There’s been only one other Minnesota Duluth, arrives Eaves took over as coach. coach on the Badgers’ bench since as the defending NCAA 1966. That was Bill Rothwell, who champion and on a 12-game Looking for No. 200 served as coach while Johnson unbeaten streak (10-0-2). » Eaves, in his 10th-year coached the 1976 U.S. Olympic Wisconsin hopes for a re- leading the Badgers, Team.

60 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

INSIDE WOMEN’S HOCKEY BY ROSS LADUE @BadgerWHockey

SCHEDULE Last Five Nov. 19 at Rensselaer W, 8-2 Nov. 25 St. Cloud State W, 5-0 Nov. 27 St. Cloud State W, 6-1 Dec. 2 at Minnesota State W, 4-0 Dec. 3 at Minnesota State W, 5-1

This Week Dec. 9 at #7 Bemidji State 2 p.m. Dec. 10 at #7 Bemidji State 2 p.m.

Next Five Jan. 6 at #2 Minnesota 7 p.m. Jan. 7 at #2 Minnesota 4 p.m. Jan. 14 at #5 North Dakota 2 p.m. Jan. 15 at #5 North Daktoa 2 p.m. Jan. 20 #9 Minn. Duluth 2 p.m.

Another milestone in Bemidji » Last season at Bemidji State, Hil- ary Knight scored her 100th ca- reer goal. As Knight heads back to Bemidji a season later, she is poised to reach another milestone against the Beavers. Knight is just Badgers finish 2011 six points away from claiming sole possession of UW’s career points with a tough road series record. Trip to Bemidji State up next for Badgers White hot scoring » The group of Carolyne Prévost, he Badgers finish off the Since BSU moved into the Brianna Decker, Brooke Ammer- T2011 portion of the season Sanford Center, Wisconsin man and Hilary Knight have com- with a trip to Bemidji State, has been the only team to bined for a total of 67 goals and 80 and the Beavers are enjoying sweep the Beavers on their assists so far this season. The four their highest ranking in pro- home ice, but the Badgers account for over half (.621) of the gram history at No. 7 in the needed overtime to pull it off. team’s point production and have latest poll. UW must maintain fo- scored almost three-fourths (.720) After handing losses to Min- cus over the weekend and of the team’s goals so far this sea- nesota, Minnesota Duluth and limit defensive breakdowns son. They are the highest scoring North Dakota, BSU is proving if they want to repeat last group of four in the nation with that it can win on any night. season’s sweep in Bemidji. 147 points.

62 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 WOMEN’S HOCKEY THIS WEEK IN BADGER HISTORY

UW finished the 1995 season with 20 wins, the most in program history.

December 10, 1995 On top of the world The men’s soccer team defeated Duke, 2-0, to win the first NCAA championship in school his- tory. The Badgers posted five consecutive shutouts en route to the national title, becoming the first team since 1976 to go through the NCAA tournament without giving up a goal.

December 6, 1963 YOUNG SCORES: A rebound goal by Chan Young gave Wisconsin its first modern-era collegiate men’s hockey victory, a 3-2 overtime decision over Macalaster.

ALSO December 8, 2000 THIS FINAL FOUR APPEARANCE: The volleyball team defeated UCLA, 3-2, to advance to WEEK the NCAA Final Four for the first time in school history. December 10, 1994 SCORING RECORD: tied the UW men’s basketball single-game scor- ing record with 42 points in a 92-76 loss at Eastern Michigan.

64 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011

THE VOICE MATT LEPAY • VOICE OF THE BADGERS Badgers’ surprises shouldn’t surprise us

ho knew that one of the first college touchdown. fense that has been nearly as hot as top passes in Wisconsin Michigan State has an outstand- Wisconsin’s. It forced a three-and- Wfootball history would be ing defense. I doubt the Spartans out on the Spartans’ final drive. a non-scoring play? expected Jeff Duckworth to be Maybe just as important was One of the top passing plays in much of a factor in the passing the previous Michigan State series. history? Yeah, given the game’s game. That is the beauty of sports Leading 38-36, the Spartans were high stakes, I do not believe that is — it is never a bad idea to expect on the move, and marched to the overstating the case. the unexpected. As I wrote last Wisconsin 8-yard line. The drive Hail Wilson-to-Duckworth. week, the recent history of games stalled, forcing a field goal to keep it Officially, it was fourth-and-6 between these two teams has given a one-possession game. from the Michigan State 43-yard us plenty of such examples. Time for True Confession Part line. The Spartans led 39-34. It Now for True Confession Part I. II. While I avoid publicly predict- might not have been a “game on At halftime, I thought the Badgers ing games I am announcing (kind the line” play, but then again, of my own Broadcasting 101 rule), maybe it was. Russell Wilson was I thought there was no way the sec- flushed from the pocket and rolled At halftime, I thought ond Badgers-Spartans game could to his left with the Michigan State approach the original for drama. defense was in hot pursuit. the Badgers had little if Silly me again. Wilson then did what he does any chance. The offense This game had just about every- so well. I would think it is difficult was struggling. The thing. A fake PAT in the second to find many college quarterbacks quarter. A receiver who ad libs who can roll to his off-hand and defense could not get a a lateral near the boundary that throw as well as Wilson. stop. Silly me. Silly us — results in a touchdown. A running Wilson let it fly deep to the back completing a pass to his quar- right side. Waiting for the ball was at least some of us. terback (note: Montee Ball is now sophomore receiver Jeff Duck- 2-for-2 as a passer this year). A worth, and with two Spartans quarterback with two receptions in defenders near him, Duckworth had little, if any, chance to win. I the same game. A replay reversal pulled it down at the MSU 7-yard just did not like the matchup. After in Wisconsin’s favor and a special line. One play later, Montee Ball another hot start, the offense was teams miscue that secured victory. ripped through the line for what struggling. Wisconsin’s defense I was worn out just watching it. proved to be the game-winning, Big could not get a stop. Kirk Cousins Try to imagine how the players and Ten title-clinching touchdown. was in rhythm with his receivers, the coaches felt after such a game. But back to the catch. The especially B.J. Cunningham and Even though I will admit to Badgers talk a lot about receivers Keshawn Martin. whiffing on my thoughts before and attacking the ball. That is exactly Someone who must have been during Saturday’s classic, please what Duckworth was able to do. It thinking the same thing asked me allow me to try one more time with was one three catches he had on about spending late December in this bit of “wisdom” — if Badgers- Saturday night. Those numbers Tempe, Ariz., instead of Pasadena. Spartans II exhausted you, make give him a grand total of 15 recep- Silly me. Silly us — at least some sure you are well-rested before the tions this season, and 18 for his of us. Rose Bowl. career. Duckworth also scored the In the second half, the defense If ever a game had the potential game’s first touchdown. It was the allowed just 10 points against an of- to be even wilder, this might be it.

66 » VARSITY DECEMBER 8, 2011 MATT LEPAY • VOICE OF THE BADGERS