The Wisconsin Badgers have a chance to put the disappointing Week 1 loss behind them when Western Illinois visits Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday.
The Badgers are massive favorites after falling 41-13 to Notre Dame, but this game is about more than just getting back in the win column. Wisconsin needs to use the matchup to answer some important questions before Big Ten play arrives.
Can Colton Joseph build on his promising debut?
Colton Joseph showed plenty to like in his Wisconsin debut, particularly during the first half against Notre Dame. The transfer quarterback displayed poise in the pocket and the ability to generate plays.
Western Illinois should provide a much more comfortable environment for Joseph to continue developing his chemistry with Wisconsin's receivers and Jeff Grimes' offense.
Can Wisconsin establish the run?
The Badgers managed only 67 rushing yards against Notre Dame, making the ground game an obvious area to watch against Western Illinois.
With Abu Sama III and Darrion Dupree leading the backfield, Wisconsin should have an opportunity to establish the physical rushing attack that has traditionally been a staple of the program.
Will Wisconsin play with the same intensity for 60 minutes?
Perhaps the biggest question is whether the Badgers can maintain their level of play from start to finish. Wisconsin was competitive with Notre Dame for a half before the game got away from them in the final 30 minutes. Against Western Illinois, the Badgers need to show that their physicality and attention to detail aren't dependent on the opponent.
The result should never really be in doubt. What Wisconsin puts on film, however, could tell us quite a bit about this team heading into the rest of the season.
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Three questions Wisconsin football must answer vs. Western Illinois
