Wisconsin got smoked by Alabama 41-10 in Week 2 before a second-half implosion versus USC caused them to cough up a 21-10 halftime lead. However, they've regrouped since then and rattled off two straight dominant victories over Purdue and a solid @Rutgers defense by a combined score of 94-to-13. Co-starting RB Chez Mellusi left the team, so RB1 Tawee Walker shouldered a 24-carry load for a whopping 198 rushing yards and three touchdowns last week against the Scarlet Knights. QB Braedyn Locke has completed 68% of his throws over his last two contests and spurred on the offensive revival for the Badgers in relief of Tyler Van Dyke.
Northwestern went into last week's game against @Maryland with their backs against the wall having dropped their first three games against Power Four opponents Duke, @Washington and undefeated Indiana. The Wildcats benefitted from 3 fumble recoveries and an interception to defeat the Terrapins 37-10, despite gaining just 10 first downs and going 3-for-12 in 3rd down situations. Their offense ranks 104th in SP+ and have struggled mightily to cobble together a consistent offense. Northwestern's bright spot is a stout run defense that is currently recording the 20th best EPA/rush and ninth-best yards per rush in FBS.
NBC Sports has all the latest info and analysis you need, including how to tune in for kickoff, odds from BetMGM, player news and updates, and of course our predictions and best bets for the game from our staff of experts.
Listen to the B1G Talk podcast with Todd Blackledge and Noah Eagle for the most compelling storylines across all of college football, with the biggest teams on the rise and the latest rankings!
Want to check out the other games on the College Football schedule this week? We've got you covered right here on NBC Sports with all the matchup, venue, game-time and TV/streaming info so you won't miss any of the action!
The latest odds as of Thursday night:
The line opened at -7 and has since crawled over the key number to 7.5 and even 8 in some places. Wisconsin's -238 moneyline open has increased to the -300 to -340 ballpark, with Northwestern following suit from +195 to +270. The total has barely budged since the open at 41 points, ticking up to 41.5 at the moment.
NBC Sports Betting Analyst Eric Froton (@CFFroton) thinks points could be hard to come by:
"Wisconsin has cleared the 41.5 point barrier in every game this year against FBS opponents, with the Badgers scoring 94 points over their last two games. Northwestern has been scoring more since inserting QB1 Jack Lausch as well, clearing 41.5 points in three of their last four games. I'm backing the Over 41.5 points."
Listen to the Bet the Edge podcast as hosts Jay Croucher and Drew Dinsick provide listeners with sharp actionable insight, market analysis and statistical data to help bettors gain more information before placing their wagers.
College Football talk is taking over Bet the Edge every Thursday throughout the season. BET THE EDGE is your source for all things sports betting. Get all of Vaughn Dalzell, Eric Froton, and Brad Thomas' insights Thursdays at 6AM ET right here or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff: