Minnesota led Wisconsin 21-0 midway through the third quarter, but instead of the Badgers facing a fourth and 15, a late hit by linebacker Joey Gerlach gave Wisconsin a first down. The Baders scored a touchdown two plays later to make it 21-7.

Wisconsin had a string of 22 consecutive bowl appearances and winning seasons. But the team needed a win to get to .500 and become bowl eligible.

By beating Wisconsin, the Gophers denied their bitter rival bowl eligibility. The Badgers have appeared in a bowl for 22 consecutive years, but the only wa