Wisconsin vs. Minnesota — the Paul Bunyan's Axe rivalry

Jeff Hauser

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Wisconsin vs. Minnesota — Paul Bunyan’s Axe fight image

TL;DR

  • Wisconsin and Minnesota battle for Paul Bunyan's Axe, a historic rivalry dating back to 1890.
  • Wisconsin's offense struggles significantly, ranking 135th in yards and points, while Minnesota's aerial attack is stronger.
  • Wisconsin's defense is a strength, ranking 16th nationally against the run, but Minnesota's red zone defense is weak.
  • Turnovers and disciplined play, with minimal penalties for both teams, could decide the outcome of the game.

The Wisconsin-Minnesota football game features one of the sport's most iconic prizes, Paul Bunyan's Axe.

The rivalry, first contested in 1890, reached its zenith as a Big Ten West referendum following the establishment of divisions. Wisconsin's offensive line and running back focus stood in contrast to Minnesota's developmental scheme discipline.

Wisconsin concludes a lackluster season with a showdown. The Badgers' offense has faltered, gaining an average of 251.7 yards (ranking 135th in FBS) and scoring 13.4 points (also 135th). Their aerial attack has been especially weak, producing just 132.3 yards through the air (133rd). Quarterback Danny O’Neil has accumulated 635 yards, five touchdowns, and five interceptions.

Drake Lindsey's 2,145 passing yards and 15 touchdowns have fueled Minnesota's aerial offense, which boasts a 62.3% completion percentage. Wisconsin's defense is its strong suit, ranking 16th in the nation for rushing yards surrendered (103.3) and 37th in overall defensive performance (333.2).

The game's outcome might hinge on turnovers. Both squads play disciplined football, placing in the top six nationwide for minimal penalty yardage. However, Minnesota's red zone defense is still an issue, permitting opponents to score on 89.7% of their drives inside the 20-yard line (ranking 119th).

Throughout history, the Axe was pilfered on numerous occasions prior to the formal exchange recommencing in 1948. It's hard to find another rivalry that better blends territorial pride, the spectacle of a trophy, and a fierce November advantage.

The Badgers visit Minnesota on Saturday (3:30 p.m. ET, FS1).

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Staff Writer