Wisconsin vs Indiana: Keys to Today's Game

College football fans are buzzing as the Wisconsin Badgers prepare to face off against the No. 2 ranked Indiana Hoosiers in a crucial Big Ten matchup today (November 15). This game carries significant weight for both teams, with Wisconsin looking to build momentum after their stunning upset win over Washington, while Indiana aims to maintain their dominant form.

The Badgers' Quarterback Conundrum: Carter Smith Takes Center Stage

The focus for Wisconsin firmly lands on their freshman quarterback, Carter Smith. After a shocking 13-10 victory over the then-No. 23 Huskies last week, Smith finds himself co-starting on the depth chart alongside Hunter Simmons for today's game against the high-flying Hoosiers. His performance against Washington, while not stellar through the air (3-12, 8 yards), was electrifying on the ground. Smith rushed 15 times for 65 yards and a crucial 2-yard touchdown run that tied the game in the third quarter, sparking the Badgers' comeback victory.

"It stands to reason that Wisconsin true-freshman quarterback Carter Smith will see the field again when the Badgers face No. 2 Indiana on Nov. 15, one game after Smith was at the helm for UW's first Big Ten win of the season."

Smith's journey to this point is noteworthy. The four-star prospect from Bishop Verot High School in Fort Myers, Florida, initially committed to Michigan but decommitted after they pursued Bryce Underwood. He then chose Wisconsin from over 20 Power 4 offers. Initially buried deep on the depth chart behind transfers Billy Edwards Jr. and Danny O'Neil, injuries and ineffectiveness opened the door for the true freshman. Importantly, Smith's playing time this season won't burn his redshirt, as he's appeared in only three games so far, well under the four-game threshold.

The Challenge: Indiana's Dominant Offense

Wisconsin faces an immense challenge today. Indiana boasts the biggest scoring margin in all of NCAA Division I FBS football this season. They are averaging a staggering number of points per game, putting immense pressure on any defense. The Badgers' defensive unit, featuring standout freshmen linebackers Cooper Catalano (Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week) and Mason Posa (Big Ten Freshman of the Week), will be tested like never before. Wisconsin's ability to contain Indiana's explosive playmakers will be paramount to any chance of pulling off another upset.

Wisconsin's QB Stats: A Mixed Bag

The quarterback situation in Madison remains fluid beyond Smith. Danny O'Neil, who started before getting injured against Washington, is listed with an injury designation and is a question mark. If he can't go, Smith's role expands significantly. O'Neil had been the most efficient passer (68% completion, 635 yards, 5 TDs, 5 INTs), while Hunter Simmons (50.5% completion, 485 yards, 2 TDs, 5 INTs) and Billy Edwards Jr. (7-16, 113 yards) have struggled with consistency. Smith's run-first style adds a different dimension, but Wisconsin needs more production from the passing game to keep up with Indiana.

What to Watch For: Key Matchups & Stakes

Today's game is more than just another conference matchup:

• Smith vs. Indiana's Defense: Can the freshman QB continue his surprising effectiveness against a unit likely designed to stop the run?
• Wisconsin's Front Seven: Can they generate pressure on Indiana's quarterback and disrupt their high-scoring rhythm?
• Turnover Battle: Wisconsin's defense thrives on creating turnovers; will they be able to capitalize against Indiana's explosive offense?
• Bowl Implications: A win for Wisconsin would significantly boost their slim bowl hopes. For Indiana, a win keeps them firmly in the College Football Playoff conversation.

The stage is set for a fascinating clash. Can the gritty, opportunistic Badgers, led by the electrifying Carter Smith, find a way to slow down the high-flying Hoosiers, or will Indiana's offensive prowess prove too much to handle? Tune in today to find out the outcome of this pivotal Big Ten showdown.