In the final week of the Wisconsin football regular season, the Wisconsin Badgers will face the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the “Battle for the Axe.” After a brutal 44-25 loss to Nebraska last week, Wisconsin has another chance to win a bowl game at 5-6. It comes 6-5 in its rivalry game against Minnesota.

While a four-game losing streak has marred what was supposed to be a promising season, the game is more than winnable for the Badgers. They will be at home in Madison and can beat a Golden Gophers team with a similar record.

Strengthen defenses

Wisconsin’s defense made strides against Oregon but quickly fell behind, giving up 44 points to Nebraska last week. The defense was up and down, starting the season poorly but then finding a rhythm against Northwestern, Rutgers and Purdue. It came back to earth against the Cornhuskers.

The key will be limited to Minnesota quarterback Max Brosmer, forcing him to hand it off to running back Darius Taylor. Taylor wasn’t as good on the ground as Brosmer was through the air, and Wisconsin can combat the quarterback with a strong secondary. Safety Hunter Wohler will return from injury this week and breathe life into the defense.

Believe it or not, let Braedyn Locke air it

Locke looked comfortable against Nebraska, going 20-for-30 and throwing for 292 yards and three touchdowns. This was a big improvement on his performance in previous games and shows that he is not a slow burner.

Minnesota ranks 16th nationally in team defense, but Locke has a chance to tear them apart as he builds momentum from last game. Vinny Anthony II established himself as a legitimate passing option with 137 yards and a touchdown against the Cornhuskers. If Wisconsin can maintain this Locke-assisted offense, the team will have its biggest concern gone.

Get chippy early

There is a lot at stake for Wisconsin. This is a chance to extend the team’s bowl streak to 23 consecutive games against its biggest rival in the final game of the season. The Badgers will be at Camp Randall Stadium in front of their fans, which gives them an advantage but also adds pressure in these outings.

Wisconsin will play a Minnesota team with a better record that has shown more this season. The bottom line is that this is a rivalry game and the Badgers need to wake up early. There’s no doubt the energy will be there, but Wisconsin should set the tone with some explosive plays and tough shots. Let the fans know you’re here.