Wisconsin Football: Top 30 Games in Wisconsin Badgers History
By Jim Oxley
Bucky Badger leads the team out of the tunnel at Camp Randall Stadium. Jim Oxley photo
Wisconsin vs. #1 Michigan: September 12, 1981
Wisconsin 21, Michigan 14
The Badgers faced a daunting task to open the 1981 season as the top team in the country, the Michigan Wolverines, came to town to open the schedule. The Badgers, despite being massive underdogs, came out on top in a 21-14 victory.
Wisconsin dominated play, outgaining Michigan 439229 in total yardage and gaining 23 first downs to Michigan’s eight. Still, the Badgers found themselves tied 14-14 in the third quarter.
John Williams broke that tie on a 71-yard screen pass touchdown to put Wisconsin ahead, and Matt VandenBoom intercepted Michigan quarterback Steve Smith three times over the Wolverines’ final six possessions to secure a big victory for the Badgers.
Next: 2005: Wisconsin vs. Minnesota