Wisconsin football faced another challenging game on November 23, 2024, suffering a 44-25 defeat against Nebraska in a matchup that showcased Nebraska’s resurgence and Wisconsin’s struggles this season. The loss marks Wisconsin’s fourth consecutive defeat and has put their hopes of bowl eligibility on the line as they approach the final regular-season game against Minnesota.
In his post-game press conference, Wisconsin coach Luke Fickell expressed his disappointment following the match, noting the need to address the team’s recent inconsistencies. The Badgers now find themselves with a record of 5-6, needing to secure a win against Minnesota in their upcoming game on November 29 to avoid missing a bowl game for the first time in years.
Nebraska enjoyed a standout performance during the game, particularly from its rushing attack led by sophomore tailbacks Emmett Johnson and Dante Dowdell. Johnson gained a career-high 113 yards, while Dowdell added 41 yards along with three touchdowns, highlighting Wisconsin’s vulnerabilities in rush defense. Overall, Nebraska amassed 180 rushing yards compared to Wisconsin’s 115.
The game also saw impressive performances from Nebraska’s freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola, who completed nearly 74% of his passes for 293 yards and one touchdown, showcasing his growth and confidence as he directed the offense effectively.
On the other hand, Wisconsin’s quarterback Braedyn Locke threw for 292 yards, with three touchdowns, but also added another interception to his unfortunate streak of games with picks—his ninth consecutive game having thrown at least one interception.
From a broader perspective, despite the distressing loss, Wisconsin still has a chance to regroup and secure bowl eligibility against their arch-rival, Minnesota. With a storied history in this rivalry, the upcoming matchup provides an opportunity for the Badgers to turn their season around, maintain their grip on the coveted Paul Bunyan’s Axe, and build momentum heading into the offseason.
This game serves as a reminder that while challenges arise, college football often brings unpredictable twists, and the next opportunity is always just around the corner for teams eager to reclaim their place in postseason play.