In an exciting rivalry weekend of college football, Wisconsin and Minnesota are preparing to clash for Paul Bunyan’s Axe in a storied matchup that marks their 134th meeting and the 117th consecutive game, the longest uninterrupted series in FBS history. This game not only highlights the intensity of college football rivalries but also showcases the rich history between the Badgers and the Golden Gophers.
The rivalry has been competitive since 2018, with the teams evenly split at 3-3, though the visiting team has emerged victorious in the last two encounters. Minnesota has notably seen a turnaround in their performance at Camp Randall Stadium, winning two of their previous three games there after battling through a long streak of losses from 1996 to 2016. The tension remains high as only two games in their last six matchups have been decided by a single possession.
Historically, Wisconsin had a dominant run from 2004 to 2017, winning 14 consecutive games. However, the all-time series is now tied at 63-63-8, making this contest crucial for both teams. This match carries extra weight for Wisconsin, as they seek to break a troubling four-game losing streak—their longest since 2008—and maintain their bowl streak, which includes 22 consecutive seasons in postseason play.
Head coaches Luke Fickell of Wisconsin and P.J. Fleck of Minnesota share a history dating back to their time together at Ohio State. Their familiarity adds another layer of intrigue to this matchup, as both coaches look to motivate their teams to victory. Minnesota’s stout defense has been a key factor in their recent success, ranking among the top defenses in the nation, while Wisconsin aims to reclaim their competitive edge on both sides of the ball.
Fans can tune in to the game on CBS, with a kickoff scheduled for noon ET at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin. Given the recent trends in the rivalry and the stakes involved, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter that College Football fans will not want to miss.
The matchup is poised to be a reminder of the unpredictability of college football, as both teams harness their rich histories and strive for dominance on the field. This game is not just a contest for the axe; it symbolizes resilience for Wisconsin, while Minnesota looks to build on its defensive prowess and recent momentum. With both teams motivated to put forth their best effort, fans can expect a nail-biting rivalry game that could boil down to the wire.