Despite mostly sunny skies, the dark cloud of “Here We Go Again” hovered over Camp Randall Stadium. For the third year in a row, the Badgers lost their starting quarterback in September – the most recent edition being Billy Edwards, Jr, who sprained his knee the week prior. While replacement Danny O’Neil played well on this Saturday against the lowly Blue Raiders, the challenges that lie ahead draw concern.
Madison is always a festival on gamedays. Even though the team missed a bowl game last year for the first time since 2001, enthusiasm always permeates. And while “On Wisconsin” played often today, fans left knowing that this could be the last win for while. With Alabama, Michigan, Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana on the roadmap, a bowl game seems like a luxury.
Middle Tennessee just seemed to be happy for the experience. After the game, the spirit squad and mascot joined in the Fifth Quarter celebrations on the field. It’s a reminder that most other teams view Wisconsin as a powerhouse gameday atmosphere built by decades of tradition and winning. Badger fans often take for granted the success they have had in the past 30 years. This season could be another humbling one.
