Wisconsin and Minnesota are gearing up for an exciting showdown for Paul Bunyan’s Axe, kicking off a thrilling rivalry weekend in college football. This marks the 134th encounter between the Wisconsin Badgers and the Minnesota Golden Gophers, and they will clash for the 117th consecutive time. This unprecedented streak makes it the longest continuous series in the history of FBS football.
The series has seen an equal split since 2018, with the teams tied at three wins each. Interestingly, the visiting team has emerged victorious in the last two matchups. Minnesota has regained some momentum in recent years, managing to win two of the last three games in Madison after an 11-game losing streak from 1996 to 2016. Over the past six seasons, only two games were decided by a single possession, indicating the fierce competitiveness of this rivalry. Historically, Wisconsin dominated the series from 2004 to 2017 with 14 straight victories, but they currently lead the all-time record just slightly with a tally of 63 wins, 63 losses, and 8 ties.
The stakes are high for Wisconsin as they enter this game on a four-game losing streak, the longest for the program since 2008. They are seeking to break this unfortunate pattern and maintain their impressive bowl game streak, which has lasted for 22 seasons — the third-longest active streak in FBS. In contrast, Minnesota has recently turned the tide, winning four out of their last six games.
The game is set for Friday, November 29, at noon ET at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin, and will be broadcast live on CBS.
In terms of coaching history, the match brings together two familiar faces. Minnesota’s P.J. Fleck and Wisconsin’s Luke Fickell both share a past at Ohio State, where they were part of a successful coaching staff under former coach Jim Tressel.
On the field, Minnesota boasts one of the toughest defenses in the nation, sitting among the top 15 in FBS for scoring defense and total defense. Key player Koi Perich, a freshman defensive back, has emerged as a standout, leading the Big Ten with five interceptions this season.
As for predictions, expectations are low for offensive fireworks, with many pointing to the struggles both teams have faced in finding the end zone consistently.
This matchup serves not only as a rivalry game but as a critical moment for Wisconsin to restore its pride and playoff aspirations, while Minnesota looks to continue its upward trajectory. Fans will undoubtedly be treated to a hard-fought battle, underscoring the passion and intensity that college football is known for.
In summary, this rivalry game is poised to be an exciting chapter in the storied history between Wisconsin and Minnesota, showcasing both teams’ determination to secure victory and set the tone for the remainder of the season.