Outback Bowl 2015: Viewing Info and Preview for Auburn vs. Wisconsin

Auburn and Wisconsin might have missed out on the College Football Playoff, but both teams are worthy of a notable bowl game. The Tigers and Badgers will get exactly that in the Outback Bowl in yet another Big Ten vs. SEC battle.

After coming up short of a national title last year, Auburn took a slight step back this year with four losses. The Tigers came unwound down the stretch with three losses in the final four games, but they still have an offense that can compete with any team.

Wisconsin closed the regular season with seven straight wins but was blown out in the Big Ten Championship Game by Ohio State. Led by Melvin Gordon, the Badgers are looking to usher in a new era after Gary Andersen left the program for Oregon State.

Both programs have hopes of ending the season on a high note at the Outback Bowl. Below is a look at the schedule and preview for the enticing showdown.

Game Information

Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015 at 12 p.m. ET

TV: ESPN

Live Stream: WatchESPN

Preview

All season long, Gordon proved he was one of the top running backs in the country. His invite to the Heisman Trophy ceremony? Well, that proved he's now one of the best players in the nation.

The Badgers lead back rushed for 2,336 yards and 26 touchdowns this season along with three other receiving scores. Winning the Doak Walker Award for his efforts, Gordon was the catalyst for Wisconsin's offense all season.

Wisconsin athletics director Barry Alvarez knows a thing or two about the history of the Badgers football program. The former coach had high praise for the team's current tailback, via Jesse Temple of Fox Sports:

On the other side stands Nick Marshall and the potent Auburn offense. This hasn't been quite the same season for Marshall as 2013, but he's still been consistent on the ground.

His passing touchdown numbers are up from last year, but the read-option plays didn't have quite the same effectiveness without Tre Mason. The rushing yards were down with 780, but his 11 touchdowns were still a key component to the Tigers' success.

USA TODAY Sports

Marshall's athleticism at the college level will likely land him at a different position at the next level. In fact, Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN believes he will be a member of an NFL secondary in the future, via Brandon Marcello of The Birmingham News:

Therefore, two freakish athletes will do battle for the right to claim the Outback Bowl, but Gordon comes in as the more polished product. Given the effectiveness of the offenses on both sides, a shootout can be expected on the big stage.

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