In a disappointing end to the season, the Wisconsin Badgers fell to the Minnesota Golden Gophers, 24-7, marking the end of their hopes for a bowl game and interrupting a 22-year postseason streak—the longest in the FBS. The defeat also meant Wisconsin relinquished Paul Bunyan’s Axe, a trophy contested in one of college football’s most storied rivalries, dating back to 1907.
The game showcased a stark contrast in performance, with Minnesota amassing a total of 374 yards compared to Wisconsin’s mere 166. Quarterback Braedyn Locke struggled significantly, completing just 15 of 32 passes for 130 yards, one touchdown, and notably, no interceptions. This is particularly striking as it was Locke’s first game of the season without a pick, highlighting a season that has been riddled with challenges and inconsistencies.
Despite the defeat, Locke expressed a desire to remain with the team, sparking conversations about the future of Wisconsin’s quarterback situation. With the team now facing an uncertain off-season, questions loom about whether Coach Luke Fickell might seek fresh talent from the transfer portal or if freshman Mabrey Mettauer could potentially step into the starting role.
The Badgers began the game with some fight but were unable to find a rhythm on offense until it was too late. Their lone score came in the second half during a flourishing 11-play, 65-yard drive capped by a Locke-to-Anthony touchdown, cutting Minnesota’s lead to 21-7 briefly. However, Wisconsin’s attempts to mount a comeback faltered, and they ultimately ended their season with a disappointing 5-7 record, having lost the last five games of the season.
As the Badgers look ahead, there is an opportunity for growth and renewal. The end of this challenging season could serve as a catalyst for change and re-evaluation, an essential step in building a stronger, more competitive team moving forward. The coaching staff will likely be heavily involved in making the necessary adjustments to get the program back on track.
While this may be a time of reflection for Wisconsin football, it also opens the door for fresh strategies, potential player development, and the opportunity to reclaim their standing in college football for the next season.