Wisconsin secures win over Western Illinois at Camp Randall Stadium

Wisconsin moved to 1-1 on the season with a 36-9 victory over Western Illinois on September 12 at Camp Randall Stadium. The win marked the Badgers' 29th consecutive home opener victory, a streak dating back to 1995. While the final score appeared lopsided, the Badgers struggled to control the pace, trailing in time of possession by nearly 13 minutes. Big plays in the ground game, including a 72-yard touchdown run by Abu Sama and a 28-yard score from Darrion Dupree, helped separate Wisconsin from the Leathernecks. Special teams also contributed, as Carson Van Dinter recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown. Quarterback Colton Joseph completed 12 of 22 passes for 173 yards and a score, adding 33 yards on the ground to navigate a stagnant first half where the offense settled for multiple field goals.

• 2:56 AMYahoo Sports — Wisconsin 36, Western Illinois 9 | Instant takeaways from Week 2 win