3 things we learned from Wisconsin’s loss to Minnesota

MADISON — For the first time since 2003, the Wisconsin Badgers lost to the Minnesota Golden Gophers, surrendering Paul Bunyan’s Axe with a 37–15 defeat.

A chilly afternoon set up well for what was built up to be a big matchup in one of the oldest rivalries in college football. Wisconsin started slow—a sustained problem all season—and Minnesota clawed to a 3–0 lead. The second quarter provided some of the same, as Minnesota scored touchdowns on offense and on a punt return to extend the lead to 17–0 heading into Wisconsin’s last offensive possession of the half.

For the first time all day, Wisconsin’s offense exhibited some signs of life and marched down the field, resulting in a Alex…