The Big Ten Conference is one of the most competitive and exciting conferences in all of college football. Each year, teams from across the country battle it out for the title of Big Ten West Division champion. In 2020, that title goes to the Wisconsin Badgers.
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Background of the Big Ten West Division
The Big Ten West Division was formed in 2014 when the Big Ten Conference expanded from twelve to fourteen teams. The addition of the two new teams, the Maryland Terrapins and Rutgers Scarlet Knights, marked the first expansion of the conference since Penn State joined in 1990. The Big Ten West Division consists of seven teams: Illinois Fighting Illini, Iowa Hawkeyes, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Nebraska Cornhuskers, Northwestern Wildcats, Purdue Boilermakers, and the Wisconsin Badgers.
Wisconsin Badgers 2020 Season
The 2020 season was a roller coaster ride for the Wisconsin Badgers, who started the season 0-2. But they were able to turn things around and finish the regular season undefeated in the West Division, with an overall record of 6-2. The Badgers were led by a stellar defense that allowed an average of just 15.8 points per game, the lowest in the Big Ten.
Wisconsin’s offensive playmakers, including running backs Jonathan Taylor and Garrett Groshek, wide receiver Quintez Cephus, and quarterback Graham Mertz, proved to be a formidable force throughout the season. Taylor, who was a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2019, rushed for 1,120 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2020. Cephus, the team’s leading receiver, had 705 yards and 10 touchdowns, while Mertz threw for 1,941 yards and 17 touchdowns.
Wisconsin’s strong performance in the 2020 season was enough to earn them the Big Ten West Division title. The Badgers also had an impressive showing in their bowl game, defeating the Wake Forest Demon Deacons 42-28 in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl.
Conclusion
The Wisconsin Badgers were the 2020 Big Ten West Division champions, finishing the regular season undefeated in the division and finishing with an overall record of 6-2. The Badgers were led by a strong defensive effort and a potent offense that featured several playmakers, including running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Quintez Cephus. The Badgers also had a successful bowl game, beating the Wake Forest Demon Deacons 42-28 in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. With their 2020 Big Ten West Division title, the Wisconsin Badgers are looking to build upon their success in 2021 and beyond.