Wisconsin Football Rallied Behind Tanner Mordecai’s ‘Leadership’ Against Nebraska

The University of Wisconsin football team was on the ropes early on Saturday night but the Badgers rallied and later pulled off a come-from-behind victory over Matt Rhule and the Nebraska Cornhuskers 24-17 in overtime. 

This victory propelled Luke Fickell and the Badgers to a 6-5 season record, securing bowl eligibility for the 22nd consecutive season and ensuring the Freedom Trophy remained in the only home its ever known. 

Fans were understandably disheartened after falling behind 14-0 in the first quarter, given the team’s recent struggles against inferior opponents like Indiana and Northwestern. 

However, everything changed for Wisconsin football following a crucial fourth-down defensive stop, marking the turning point that led to the thrilling comeback win on the opening day of rifle hunting. 

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— Badgers Film Clips (@Badgers_Film) November 20, 2023

Wisconsin Football Comeback Fueled by Tanner Mordecai’s Leadership 

It would have been easy for the Badgers to lay down when the Nebraska Cornhuskers jumped out to a 14-0 lead. But the comeback victory showed some major resilience and will hopefully serve as a turning point for this team — which has gone through plenty of adversity in recent weeks.

What fueled this turnaround for Wisconsin football? According to head coach Luke Fickell, senior quarterback Tanner Mordecai’s leadership played a pivotal role.

“He’s undoubtedly one of the best leaders I’ve been around and incredibly competitive. He showed that tonight,” Fickell said. “He wasn’t alone. Vinny Anthony and Will Pauling made some key plays. But it’s Tanner’s leadership that prevented us from panicking when we were down 14-0. His leadership, along with the others stepping up, changed the game.”

Mordecai who was making just his second start since returning from a broken hand that required surgery last month — was the heart and soul of the Badgers against Nebraska.

The Texas native completed 18-of-28 passes for 160 yards and a touchdown pass to Jackson Acker. Mordecai also ran for 51 yards. Although there were times he may have sat in the pocket a little longer than you’d like to see — Mordecai was able to sustain drives for the Wisconsin football team and delivered during some critical moments.

Wisconsin is on the scoreboard. ⚡

📺: NBC pic.twitter.com/CSGHzg41DO

— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) November 19, 2023

I said multiple times during the last few weeks that Mordecai gives Wisconsin the best chance to win — and by laying it all out there and playing with passion all game long — he proved why against Nebraska.

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