The No. 19 Wisconsin Badgers (1-1) lost 31-22 in Pullman to the Washington State Cougars (2-0).
You get what you earn in this game, I believe that. The Badgers didn’t do enough to earn a win in Pullman Saturday night. Wisconsin had the opportunity so that’s disappointing.
UW was sloppy in the first half & played very poor on both sides of the ball. That sloppy play put them in a position to lose.
Wisconsin was also on the wrong end of two brutally missed calls. The first was when Washington State quarterback Cameron Ward was sacked in the endzone for a safety, however he was ruled down at the 1-yard line. Moments later, Wisconsin running back Chez Mellusi appeared to be down by contact prior to fumbling the ball, however, the officials called it a fumble & gave Washington State the ball. (Felt like Arizona State game in Tempe in 2013 all over again).
Both statements can be true. Both are true.
Last week against Buffalo & Saturday night against Washington State, the Badgers played an extremely uninspiring first half of football – not finishing drives, turnovers & a lack of flow. The defense wasn’t any better either.
The Luke Fickell honeymoon is over.
We’re two games into the season, but there’s no getting around the fact that we still don’t have a clue on this team’s identity. Obviously, it’s still early. But what’s their personality? Especially on defense.
A lot of what the Badgers want to do this season is still on the table in front of them. Going to have to grow up a lot & quickly.
Here’s my takeaways without rewatching the game:
Wisconsin’s offense has shown the ability they can move the ball well, but not in the way we’re used to. (Threw for 278, Ran for 90).
Hard to win ball games when you’re -3 in the turnover battle. Wisconsin’s defense generated zero turnovers. The offense needs to protect the ball.
Washington State had a well coached team that not a lot of people are giving credit. QB was athletic & made more plays.
Inconsistency on both sides of the ball through eight quarters is a little discouraging.
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