Wisconsin Football: Winners & Losers from the Week 7 Game vs. Purdue

The Wisconsin Badgers traveled to Purdue with the Leaders division's spot in the Big Ten title game on the line.  The Badgers didn't disappoint, dominating the Boilermakers in nearly every aspect on the field. Montee Ball was particularly impressive, as he set multiple records during the game.

Here are the winners and losers from the Badgers' big win over Purdue.  

Winner: Montee Ball

Montee Ball had a field day against the Boilermakers.  The star running back broke out for 247 yards and three touchdowns, setting numerous records along the way.  Ball's three scores set the Big Ten and Wisconsin records for career touchdowns along with points scored.  His 247 yards were also a career high.  

Ball's record-setting day makes him a definite winner against Purdue.  

Winner: Offensive Line

Finally, the offensive line returned to form, dominating a talented Purdue defensive front. Travis Frederick and the rest of the crew blasted massive holes for Montee Ball and company, leading to the Badgers' best offensive showing of the season.  The line also kept Stave upright all day, refusing to give up a sack.  

The O-line line had a great game against Purdue, turning in their best performance of the season. 

Winner: Jacob Pedersen

Jacob Pedersen finally showed up on Saturday, catching four balls for 77 yards and a score.  Pedersen's resurgence provides another threat in the passing game, taking the pressure off of Stave and Abbrederis.  Additionally, Pedersen is lethal in play action, adding another element to the Wisconsin offense.  

The Badgers' star tight end was another key contributor against Purdue.  

Winner: Bret Bielema

Bret Bielema is looking like a genius these days.  Both of his major decisions, benching O'Brien and firing the offensive line coach, have been successes.  The team has steadily improved over the weeks, and is finally looking like a Big Ten title contender.  

With the Badgers almost assured to represent the Leaders division in Indianapolis, Bielema came up huge against the Boilermakers.

Loser: The Defense Giving Up Big Plays

The Badgers defense played very well against the Boilermakers, but they continue to give up big plays.  Both of Purdue's scores came on long runs, and it has been a problem for the defense all season.  The unit needs to limit these outbursts in order for the Badgers to become serious contenders in the Big Ten.  

Conclusion

The Badgers' win over Purdue was easily their most complete game of the season.  The offense rolled over the Boilermakers, while the defense shut down Purdue's potentially dangerous spread attack.

This was a huge victory for the Badgers, as it almost assuredly locks up their spot in the Big Ten title game.