Wisconsin Badgers Defense Carries Team to Crucial 17-0 Win Over Miami (OH)

The offense of the Wisconsin Badgers football team was not what the fans and the staff wanted, but many of the kinks and issues will likely be worked out. On defense, however, the team looked strong, intelligent, and mature while effectively dismantling the Miami (OH) offense.

The RedHawks recorded just 117 total yards on offense while averaging 1.5 yards per play on the ground and 4.6 yards per play through the air. Miami (OH) had just 83 passing yards and 34 rushing yards while surrendering two interceptions and three sacks. The biggest play of the night for the RedHawks offense was a 20-yard gain through the air to Cole Weaver.

Some true standouts on defense for the Wisconsin Badgers were Darryl Peterson, Sebastian Cheeks, Christian Alliegro, and Mason Reiger. Peterson, Reiger, and Alliegro all recorded sacks against the RedHawks as the four combined for 14 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 3.5 tackles for loss. The outside linebackers especially looked dangerous for the Badgers as Reiger and Peterson were consistently able to find a way into the backfield during the win.

Wisconsin Badgers Defense Picks up Offense Following Tough Injury Scare

The defense could not have turned up the heat and performed better at another moment as Billy Edwards Jr. going down with a non-contact injury was a gut punch. The last three seasons in a row the starter has suffered an injury at quarterback which has been an issue that frankly hurts the morale of the program.

The Badgers defense, however, was not prepared to give up and the performance that was put together was impressive regardless of who the opponent was. Wisconsin struggled to adjust on offense but managed to display an excellent, capable, and hungry defense at the perfect time.

Major props should go to both Christian Alliegro and Sebastian Cheeks in particular as each linebacker was flying around the football field all night. The play of the duo in the middle was a key reason why the RedHawks were not able to generate much of a running game against the Badgers.