UW a bully

If recent history means anything, UW should be able to run the ball at will and score a lot of points against Indiana. The Badgers have averaged 45.3 points in winning their last four games against the Hoosiers. In the last three, UW has rushed for a combined 929 yards and 15 touchdowns.

No messing around

A big reason the Badgers were able to rush for 441 yards during their 55-20 victory over Indiana last season was the success of the end-around play. Wide receiver David Gilreath ran it eight times for 168 yards and two touchdowns, including a 90-yarder in the third quarter. UW added a new twist to the end-around last week by handing the ball off to tight end Lance Kendricks, who gained 91 yards on four carries.

Message received

Indiana sophomore wide receiver Tandon Doss, who ranks near the top of the Big Ten with 59 receptions for 751 yards, should beware: Some of the Big Ten's top receivers haven't fared well against the Badgers. Purdue's Keith Smith and Michigan State's Blaire White were each held to one reception for eight yards, while Purdue's Aaron Valentin had two receptions for 32 yards. Minnesota's Eric Decker, who had eight receptions for 140 yards and a touchdown, was an exception to the rule.

No lead is safe

UW fans shouldn't fret if Indiana jumps out to a lead. The Hoosiers blew a 25-point first-half lead during a 29-28 loss to Northwestern two weeks ago. Indiana led Iowa by 10 points entering the fourth quarter last week and lost - by 18 points.

Means to an end

It's a good year for defensive ends in the Big Ten. One of the best is Indiana fifth-year senior Jammie Kirlew, who leads the Big Ten with five fumbles forced and is tied for the lead with three fumbles recovered. He's also among the league leaders in sacks (5.5) and tackles for loss (13.5).

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