Defense Faces Big Challenge Ahead

Stopping the run has been a key part of the Badgers’ defensive strength. They ranked third in the nation in rushing defense at 89.6 yards a game, fifth in total defense at 270.3 yards and first in scoring defense at 10.2 points a game.

However, against UCLA quarterback Cade McNown, stopping the run is only the beginning of the Badgers’ job.

“They’ve got a combination of a great quarterback and great receivers,” Badger outside linebacker Bob Adamov said Monday. “They’re going to catch some balls. The thing we need to do on defense is after the pass, make sure it doesn’t turn into a big play, so a 10-yard catch doesn’t turn into a long touchdown. . . .

“We feel we can stop the run and contain the pass. I’m sure something will give, and hopefully it’s not us.”

The play of redshirt freshmen cornerbacks Jamar Fletcher and Mike Echols figures to be pivotal Friday. Each is 5 feet 10, a significant height disadvantage against 6-4 Bruin receiver Danny Farmer and 6-5 Brian Poli-Dixon.

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The Badgers’ second Rose Bowl appearance in six years helps them to recruit in California, and Wisconsin Coach Barry Alvarez expects their California contingent to grow from its current six.

“Naturally, kids from Southern California identify with the Rose Bowl. It gives us credibility,” he said. “It has allowed us to get into some [recruits’] living rooms that we couldn’t have gotten into.”

UCLA (10-1) vs. WISCONSIN (10-1), Jan. 1, 1:30 p.m., Channel 7