Ohio State vs Wisconsin: Ryan Day Issues Puzzling Take on Badgers’ Defense

The top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes travel to face the Wisconsin Badgers this Saturday. The game kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison. Reigning national champions Ohio State are a perfect 6-0 this season.

Wisconsin, however, has struggled with a 3-3 record. The Badgers have lost all three of their Big Ten conference games by significant margins. According to Reuters, this matchup appears heavily lopsided on paper.

Day Praises Struggling Wisconsin Unit

Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day spoke to reporters ahead of the road trip. He offered a surprising assessment of the Wisconsin defense. Day called them “one of the better defenses in the country.”

He acknowledged the Badgers’ season has not met expectations. Day also stated he expects a desperate team fighting for its season. He warned his squad to prepare for a team coming out with its “hair on fire.”

Stats Tell a Different Story for Badgers

The statistical reality contrasts sharply with Day’s comments. Wisconsin ranks 13th in the Big Ten in points allowed per game. They are giving up an average of 22.7 points to opponents.

Their performance against Power-Four teams is even more concerning. In those four games, the Badgers are allowing 31.5 points per game on average. This sets up a tough challenge against Ohio State’s high-powered offense.

The Buckeyes are averaging nearly 37 points per game this season. Their offense is a multifaceted threat capable of scoring quickly. Wisconsin’s defense will need a historic performance to slow them down.

The Ohio State vs Wisconsin game presents a classic trap scenario for the nation’s top team. Ryan Day is publicly emphasizing the threat of a struggling opponent. This psychological approach aims to ensure his Buckeyes avoid a catastrophic upset on the road.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Ohio State’s current ranking?

Ohio State is the number one ranked team in the nation. They hold a perfect 6-0 record. The Buckeyes are the defending national champions.

What channel is the Ohio State vs Wisconsin game on?

The game will be broadcast nationally on CBS. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Viewers can check their local listings.

How has Wisconsin performed in the Big Ten this year?

Wisconsin is 0-3 in conference play this season. Their losses came against Maryland, Michigan, and Iowa. They lost those games by an average of over 22 points.

What is the recent history between these two teams?

Ohio State has dominated the recent rivalry. The Buckeyes have won ten consecutive meetings against Wisconsin. Their last loss to the Badgers was in 2011.

Why is Ryan Day warning his team about Wisconsin?

Day believes a struggling team with its “backs against the wall” is dangerous. He is preparing his players for Wisconsin’s best effort. This is a common coaching tactic to prevent player complacency.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, ESPN, CBS Sports