Coming into this season, this matchup was circled, highlighted and starred on each team’s schedule. With both teams ranked in the top 20 in the preseason rankings, the battle between Wisconsin and Michigan State would hold significant value in the Big Ten standings and the hearts of the respective fanbases.
But Saturday’s matchup between the Badgers and the Spartans was significantly more appetizing in the preseason than what is currently on the table. Both Wisconsin and Michigan State are respectable, competitive Big Ten programs. In the past ten seasons, they have combined for nine appearances and two victories in the Big Ten Championship.