Badger of Honor
Fansided

Flashback: A Yom Kippur Running Diary

By Noah Seligman

DETROIT - 2006: Matt Bernstein of the Detroit Lions poses for his 2006 NFL headshot at photo day in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Getty Images)
DETROIT - 2006: Matt Bernstein of the Detroit Lions poses for his 2006 NFL headshot at photo day in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Getty Images) /
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ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 2: Quarterback Brandon Cox
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 2: Quarterback Brandon Cox /

The 2004 Badgers actually made it to 9-0 and #4 in the national ranks before a disappointing conclusion.  Wisconsin got thumped on the road by Michigan State and Iowa before losing 24-21 to Georgia in the Outback Bowl.

The 2005 season was Bernstein’s final year with Wisconsin.  The Badgers went 10-3 and earned a little SEC payback by beating Auburn 24-10 in the Outback Bowl.  That game was not nearly as close as the final score suggested.

Here are the final numbers for Bernstein’s Badger career.  Keep in mind, he was a fullback so his job was paving the road for Wisconsin running backs.

  • 138 Rushing Attempts
  • 508 Rushing Yards
  • 5 Rushing Touchdowns
  • 22 Receptions
  • 181 Receiving Yards
  • 10 Kick Returns for 90 Yards

Bernstein had a brief NFL shot before settling into a productive career as a teacher and coach.  He later returned to Madison to work for the UW Foundation.  He now works for an IT staffing company.  

You signed with the Lions after the 2006 NFL Draft.  Care to comment on your NFL experience?

You mean the quick cup of coffee I had in Detroit?  It was an experience I will never forget but I am sure Detroit has long forgotten about me [I don’t know, Lions running game has struggled for years].  I was there for camp, got hurt, and got cut.  Easy peasy!

Your thoughts on being inducted into the Jewish Sports Hall of Fame?

It is just so cool to be say that I was lucky enough to be inducted.  It speaks to my teammates and coaches who believed I could be a fantastic football player and person.  It is extremely special for my parents and family.  It means a lot to me and I am proud to say I am part of it.

How many carries and total yards you think you’ll amass on Yom Kippur this year?

I know one thing.  I will eat three bagels with lox and cream cheese  and still try to go for that fourth one.

Next: Looking Around the Big Ten West

Our thanks again to Matt Bernstein for his good humor and answering our questions.  L’Shanah Tovah and have an easy fast.