Previewing the Purdue-Wisconsin Game

Wisconsin has lost two in a row, and hasn't even won a game since Oct. 15.

Purdue, on the other hand, has alternated wins and losses in every single game this year.

They lost last week to Michigan, so the pattern says that they are due for a win this week.

But does Wisconsin really need to be on upset alert?  Here's a preview of Saturday's game.

Can Purdue Stop Wisconsin's Passing Attack?

Wisconsin's passing attack has been very good this year, as they throw for over 250 yards a game.

Russell Wilson's numbers are unbelievable, as he is completing over 70 percent of his passes and has a 19-3 touchdown to interception ratio.

Jared Abbrederis is actually the leading receiver, just slightly ahead of Nick Toon.  Both guys are averaging over 16 yards a catch.

Purdue's pass defense this year has been average.  They rank 41st in the country, which isn't too bad.

Ricardo Allen and Josh Johnson are solid enough at corner, while Logan Link and Albert Evans serve as decent safeties.

However, Wisconsin should have no problem throwing the ball on Purdue.  Don't expect the Boilermakers to stop Wisconsin's passing attack.

Can Purdue Stop Wisconsin's Running Game?

The real challenge for Purdue is slowing down Wisconsin's running backs.

Montee Ball is just a little over 100 yards away from 1,000, and there's a good chance that he gets it on Saturday.

He has also rushed for 18 touchdowns, which is tied for most in the country.

It has been surprising how little of an impact James White has had, as he has only rushed for 474 yards this year.

Regardless, Purdue isn't likely to slow down either one of those guys.

Michigan ran all over Purdue last week, and expect Wisconsin to do the same.  Their rush defense ranks 75th in the country this year, and it will show on Saturday.

Will Purdue Be Able to Move the Ball on Wisconsin?

Purdue has one of the worst passing offenses in the country, ranking 90th.  Whether Caleb TerBush or Robert Marve gets the start, don't expect them to throw it much.

Plus, Wisconsin statistically has the fourth best pass defense in the country, as they only give up 156 yards through the air per game.

Purdue will try to run the ball on Wisconsin, as that is what their offense is based around.

Ralph Bolden and Akeem Shavers have been solid this year, but not necessarily great.

Michigan held Bolden in check last week, and Shavers was a non factor.

If those two are ineffective again, Purdue has a few other running backs they may use.  Raheem Mostert is only a true freshman but is averaging just under 10 yards a carry.

Akeem Hunt is also a true freshman and he is averaging almost eight yards a carry.

Wisconsin's defense hasn't been great against the run this year, so Purdue has to hope that that continues this week.

However, it would be a surprise if the Boilermakers were able to run effectively on Saturday.

Will Wisconsin Bounce Back?

This team is out of national title contention, and is watching the Leaders Division slip away, as well.

Will they bounce back and play like they were playing a few weeks ago, or will they continue to lose?

Wisconsin plays Illinois and Penn State in the coming weeks, so they still have a good shot at winning the division.

Penn State is currently undefeated in Big Ten play but nobody expects them to end that way.

Illinois has lost three in a row and is falling out of contention.

If Wisconsin regroups and starts playing well, they can definitely still win the Big Ten and go to the Rose Bowl.

Prediction

Wisconsin should bounce back somewhat, but don't expect them to look like the team they were a few weeks ago.

Fortunately for them, they don't need to play great to beat Purdue.  They are capable of playing average and still winning.

Because it's in Madison, Wisconsin probably doesn't have a whole lot to worry about.

If the game were being played in Purdue then Wisconsin would have to be extremely careful.

This game probably won't be a complete blowout, but it won't come down to the final minutes either.

Prediction:   Wisconsin 35       Purdue 21