Wisconsin Football: Key matchups to watch vs. BYU

Three matchups that will decide the outcome when the Wisconsin Football takes on the BYU Cougars.

Wisconsin Football took care of business last week earning a 45-14 victory against the New Mexico Lobos.  The game had its share of ups and downs but overall it was another solid performance.  Wisconsin now directs their attention towards BYU when they come to town this Saturday.

Last week’s performance against the Lobos was quite similar to the play in the opener.  The Badgers made some plays but also made some inexcusable mistakes that need to be cleaned up.  Despite the mishaps, Wisconsin showed why they were the superior team by absolutely dominating New Mexico in the second half.

Alex Hornibrook turned in another quality performance but did throw an interception on a fluky play in the second half.  Jonathan Taylor made a strong statement for his Heisman campaign, but again put the ball on the ground.  Going back to last year Taylor has lost 8 fumbles, an alarming concern for the star running back.  There is no denying the talent and ability Taylor possesses, but if he wants to be a back that Coach Paul Chryst can rely on he needs to clean up his mistakes quickly.  BYU will be looking to strip Taylor on every single carry, a fumble at the wrong time could be the difference against a much better opponent.

BYU started their season with a somewhat surprising victory at Arizona but fell to California last week by three points.  Badger fans who expect a repeat performance from last year could be surprised this Saturday.  The Cougars are most likely an improved team and will be fired up to avenge last year’s embarrassing loss.  Wisconsin should see a physical BYU team that will come ready to play.

Let’s take a look at the most important matchups between the Wisconsin Badgers and the BYU Cougars.