Minnesota takes down Wisconsin 24-7, reclaims Paul Bunyan's Axe

The Minnesota Golden Gophers wrapped up their regular season with a 24-7 victory against the Wisconsin Badgers, reclaiming the Paul Bunyan's Axe trophy.

The longest-played college football rivalry is now tied for the fifth time, with a 63-63-8 record.

Minnesota's defense shined throughout the game, shutting out the Badgers in the first half. Wisconsin wouldn't have had a touchdown-scoring drive on Friday at Camp Randall Stadium if it wasn't for a late hit out-of-bounds penalty against the Gophers in the second half.

The Badgers were held to 166 total yards of offense, including only 30 rushing yards on 24 attempts (1.5 yards per carry).

The win also comes on P.J. Fleck's 44th birthday. He's now 4-4 against Wisconsin and has won the last three of four matchups since he was hired by the program.

Gophers quarterback Max Brosmer managed the game well, completing 17-for-26 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns. He also added a rushing touchdown in the game.

Darius Taylor was a major key to Minnesota's seventh win of the season, carrying the ball a season-high 32 times for 143 yards. He also hauled in two catches for 13 yards.

True freshman safety Koi Perich led the team in tackles with eight and cornerback Justin Walley was all over the field, tallying four tackles, one sack and a tackle for a loss.

The loss officially ends Wisconsin's run of 22 consecutive winning seasons. It was the longest mark among all FBS teams.

Minnesota will learn of its bowl game fate next month as they finish with a 7-5 overall record.