LOS ANGELES – The Wisconsin football team’s second half on Saturday lacked the magic of the first, as they struggled offensively and defensively, ultimately falling 38-21 to No. 16 USC in their Big Ten opener. The game, played before 74,118 fans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, saw the Badgers allow 28 unanswered points after halftime.
Throughout the game, Wisconsin was outgained 469-285, with a stark 205-82 disadvantage in the second half. Sophomore quarterback Braedyn Locke, in his first start of the season, completed 13 of 26 passes for 180 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Senior running back Tawee Walker rushed for 55 yards on 12 carries and scored twice, while junior Vinny Anthony led the team with 70 receiving yards, including a 63-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter.
Here are five key takeaways from the game.
Wisconsin’s defense struggled to stop third downs
The Badgers’ defense created several third-and-long opportunities but failed to capitalize. USC scored two touchdowns in the third quarter, largely due to their success on third down, converting five consecutive attempts with an average needed distance of 8.4 yards and gaining an average of 14 yards per play, which flipped the game’s momentum.
Turnover proved costly for the Badgers
Despite winning the turnover battle 3-2, Wisconsin couldn’t afford to be careless. A mishandled punt by Tyrell Henry, occurring after Wisconsin forced USC into a three-and-out to start the second half, gifted USC a short field that resulted in a touchdown pass from Miller to Lane.
Vertical offense pays off against USC’s defense
Wisconsin took strategic risks downfield, which paid dividends. In the first half, a 63-yard touchdown pass from Locke to Anthony highlighted the Badgers’ aggressive approach. In another pivotal moment, a completed 35-yard reception from Locke to Bryson Green set up Walker’s touchdown run, giving Wisconsin a 21-10 lead in the second quarter.
Punter Atticus Bertrams makes an impact
Sophomore punter Atticus Bertrams was crucial in the first half, punting three times for a total of 150 yards. His 74-yard punt pushed USC back to their own 1-yard line, setting up a defensive stand that ended in an interception. A subsequent 39-yard punt bounced off a USC player, leading to a recovery by Anthony that resulted in another Badgers touchdown shortly afterward.
Wisconsin finishes the first half strong
The closing minutes of the first half proved vital for the Badgers. Following a forced fumble by Leon Lowery that was recovered by Ben Barten, Wisconsin prevented USC from gaining ground as the clock wound down. Although they didn’t score in the final moments, the Badgers chewed up valuable time, leaving USC with little opportunity to respond before halftime.