Badgers news: 1 win, 2 losses from 16-13 loss to Oregon in Week 12

Heartbreakingly, the Wisconsin Badgers fell to No. 1 Oregon ducks Saturday evening 16-13. In a close game, the Badgers lost on a Braedyn Locke interception to drop their third straight game and now sit at 5-5.

Even though this was another loss, there was a lot to like on Wisconsin’s part. The biggest problems were the attack and the inability to close a game again.

Winner: Defence

Against Heisman candidate Dillon Gabriel and the No. 1 team in the nation, Wisconsin’s defense played a spectacular game. Gabriel went 22-for-31 and threw for 218 yards though; he didn’t make any long throws that impressed, and the defense came away with an interception to set the tone early.

The defensive line, which had struggled all season long, had its best game of the season with five tackles for loss and two sacks. It was a big step for that side of the ball in a game dominated by both defenses.

Loser: Braedyn Locke

It hurts to think how different this game and the season would have been if Tyler Van Dyke was still healthy. Locke is not suited to be a starting quarterback, and last night he only furthered the case.

Locke went 12-for-28 and threw for just 97 yards, one touchdown and one interception. It was hard to see as he couldn’t find his weapons for most of the game. Towards the end of the game, Locke threw several balls in the ground and made several head decisions.

The cherry on top was the interception at the end of the game. Locke was hit on the throw, and credit must go to Oregon defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei for making an incredible grab, but it was poetic to watch Locke battle through the game and end the game with a heartbreaking interception.

It’s time to give Mabrey Mettauer the start. The freshman hasn’t gotten many opportunities in blowouts, but has been effective in his time. Luke Fickell should throw him in to end the season and give Badger fans hope for next season, because Locke is clearly not the answer.

Loser: Phil Longo (Winner: Badger Fans)

At long last, Fickell relieved Phil Longo of his offensive coordinator duties. It was a much-needed and long-awaited change, but at least it happened before the end of the season. Longo was clearly not suited for the job and made the same mistakes over and over again.

Poor play and the failed implementation of the ‘air raid’ offense highlight Longo’s tenure with the Badgers. Injuries to his starting quarterbacks over the past two seasons didn’t help, but there was very little to keep him on the sidelines. Hopefully this change marks a better era for Wisconsin’s offense going forward.