Badgers Fall Short in Rose Bowl to Oregon

College Football: 

Wednesday’s Bowl Games: 

Rose Bowl: 

Oregon 28, Wisconsin 27

–The Badgers dominated several statistical categories, but couldn’t overcome four turnovers and nine penalties as they fall to the Ducks in a back-and-forth battle in the 106th Rose Bowl in Pasadena on New Years’ Day. Wisconsin held a 322-204 advantage in yards, and had the ball for over 16 minutes longer than Oregon, but gave up the go-ahead touchdown on a 30-yard run by Ducks’ quarterback Justin Herbert with 7:41 to play in the game.

After falling behind 7-0 following a 12-play, 75 yard drive by Oregon to open the game. Aron Cruickshank returned the ensuing kickoff 95 yards for a score to make it 7-7. Wisconsin took a 17-14 lead into halftime, scoring with 11 seconds left on a touchdown pass to Quintez Cephus. 

The lead swayed back and forth in the second half – with Oregon scoring on a fumble return for a touchdown early in the 3rd. Wisconsin then took a 27-21 lead on a touchdown from Mason Stokke and a field goal from Collin Larsh. A fumble by Danny Davis at the Wisconsin 30 with 7:51 left led to Oregon’s one-play go-ahead score from Herbert. 

On Wisconsin’s final drive – a controversial offensive pass interference call on Badgers receiver Danny Davis erased a first down, and the Badgers had to punt one play later. Oregon got the two first downs they needed on their ensuing drive to seal the win. 

With the loss, the Badgers finish the season at 10-4. Wisconsin has lost their last four Rose Bowl trips, all by a one-score margin. 

Outback Bowl: 

Minnesota 31, Auburn 24

Citrus Bowl:

Alabama 35, Michigan 16