After putting together an impressive performance in the opening half, which saw Illinois jump out to a 17-7 lead over No. 17 Wisconsin, the Fighting Illini proved to be their own worst enemy, as four turnovers proved to be too much to overcome in the 28-17 loss. This is the fifth consecutive loss for the Fighting Illini, while Wisconsin has a chance to win the Big 10-Leaders Division when it faces Penn St. next weekend.
The Badgers were led by the outstanding Montee Ball, who put the team on his back in this victory. Ball rushed for 224 yards and 2 TD's to propel Wisconsin. Ball added a receiving TD, which gives him 30 TD's this season. With Ball serving as the focal point for the offense, Wisconsin QB Russell Wilson only attempted 13 passes. Wilson threw for 90 yards and the the lone TD pass to Ball.
Following a very efficient performance from the QB duo of Nathan Scheelhaase and Reilly O'Toole in the opening two quarters, the Fighting Illini couldn't move the ball in the second half. . O'Toole threw two key interceptions in the second half, while Scheelhaase was also picked off while trying to rally Illinois. Freshman TE Jon Davis proved to be the best weapon for the Fighting Illini, as he led the way with 53 yards receiving on five catches.
Illinois closes out the season with a visit to Minnesota next weekend. Wisconsin will play for a spot in the inaugural Big 10 Championship Game when it visits Penn St.
SB Nation Chicago will have score updates and continuing coverage throughout the day. For game threads and fan reaction visit SB Nation's Wisconsin Badgers blog Bucky's 5th Quarter and SB Nation's Illinois Fighting Illini blog Hail to the Orange. Here's the complete Week 12 college football TV schedule, and stay tuned to SB Nation's college football news hub for more.