PHOTOS: Badgers keep axe, advance to Big Ten title game
The battle for Paul Bunyan’s Axe ended in victory for Wisconsin as the Badger football team defeated Minnesota, 34-24 Saturday night at Camp Randall Stadium. The win gives Wisconsin (10-2 overall, 7-1 Big Ten) the Big Ten West Division title and a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game against Ohio State Saturday, Dec. 6, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Melvin Gordon set a Big Ten single-season rushing record on his first carry after coming in tied with former Wisconsin running back Ron Dayne at 2,109 yards. Gordon finished the game with 151 yards rushing and two touchdowns — one on the ground and one in the air. Corey Clement ran for 89 yards and one score. Alex Erickson led the receivers with 160 yards. Joel Stave completed 11 of 18 passes for 215 yards and two touchdowns, including one to Robert Wheelwright. Rafael Gaglianone added two field goals.
Photos by Jeff Miller/University Communications
Wisconsin safety Michael Caputo (7) recovers a Minnesota fumble during the second quarter.
Wisconsin running back Corey Clement (6) celebrates a game-turning touchdown during the third quarter.
Wisconsin’s Konrad Zagzebski (91) and Marcus Trotter (59) take down Minnesota running back David Cobb (27).
Badger fans wave purple “team up to axe epilepsy” bandanas.
Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon III (25) runs for open field during the fourth quarter.
Badger fans touch the Paul Bunyan Axe as Wisconsin players celebrate the team’s retention of the trophy, which has been given since 1948.
Coach Gary Andersen kisses the Big Ten West Division Trophy as Wisconsin players celebrate their team’s victory along with Athletic Director Barry Alvarez.
Tags: student life, UW Athletics
