Wisconsin snaps 10-game Big Ten losing streak with upset win over No. 23 Washington as punter leads team in passing

Wisconsin Finally Secures a Big Ten Win, Thanks to Punter Sean West’s Unconventional Contribution

The Wisconsin Badgers snapped a daunting 10-game Big Ten conference losing streak with a hard-fought 13-10 victory over No. 23 Washington. Remarkably, this breakthrough win featured punter Sean West leading the team in passing, highlighting a unique and memorable performance for Wisconsin.

The Badgers’ Conference Struggles

Wisconsin’s conference losing streak stretched back to October 19, 2024. The team ended the 2024 season on a five-game skid and opened 2025 with another five consecutive conference losses. This lengthy drought had placed significant pressure on the program and its coaching staff.

Coaching Stability Amid Uncertainty

Just days before the win, Wisconsin athletic director Chris McIntosh confirmed that head coach Luke Fickell would return for the 2026 season. Fickell’s future had been uncertain throughout the rough stretch, but McIntosh publicly voiced his support in September, providing some reassurance to fans and players alike.

The Game: Scoring and Key Plays

Wisconsin scored the final 10 points to secure the victory. Carter Smith tied the game at 10-10 during the third quarter before kicker Nathanial Vakos nailed a go-ahead field goal with 1:58 remaining in the third. Washington missed a crucial field goal on the following drive, and both teams combined for four more drives that resulted in no points. Wisconsin ultimately ran out the clock over 22 plays, covering 69 yards amid cold rain and snowflakes.

Sean West’s Surprising Passing Role

One of the game’s standout moments was punter Sean West leading Wisconsin in passing yards. West was one of four Badgers players to attempt a pass on Saturday and caught the spotlight with a 24-yard completion to Jackson Acker on a fake punt early in the third quarter. This single play accounted for half of Wisconsin’s total passing yards.

Quarterback Performance and Injuries

The team’s quarterbacks struggled for much of the game. Hunter Simmons, Carter Smith, and Danny O’Neil combined to complete just 5 of 17 passes for 24 yards. O’Neil, who began the season as the backup but took over starting duties after Billy Edwards’ Week 1 knee injury, threw only two passes before leaving the game with a lower-body injury.

Freshman Carter Smith stepped in and played the entire second half, going 3 for 12 passing for 8 yards. Simmons also contributed late in the first half, completing 2 of 3 passes for 16 yards.

Defense Seals the Win

Wisconsin’s defense played a critical role in the victory, forcing two turnovers and limiting Washington’s explosive offense to just 251 total yards. The Huskies’ lone touchdown came on a 1-yard drive following a blocked punt recovered near the end zone.

Looking Ahead

This long-awaited Big Ten win could be a turning point for Wisconsin football, providing renewed confidence and momentum as they move forward in the season. With strong defensive play and creative special teams efforts like West’s passing, the Badgers have shown resilience and adaptability on their path back to competitiveness.
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