The Wisconsin Badgers defeated the Illinois State Redbirds 38-0 to begin their 2022 campaign, cruising to victory after a sluggish start in which the defense committed penalties to extend drives, but responded well with turnovers.
Defensive Line: B+
The Badgers' defensive line had a strong finish in the run game, allowing just 57 yards on 26 carries.
However, the unit struggled in the first quarter in comparison to their talent, as running back Cole Mueller rushed for gains of eight and 14 yards, while quarterback Zach Annexstad had a six-yard gain for a first down, and running back Wenkers Wright had carries of four and five yards.