Wisconsin Knocks Off Unbeaten Buckeyes

by David Cassilo / @dcassilo

The 1976 Indiana Hoosiers can sleep easy the rest of the season as Wisconsin’s 71-67 win over Ohio State on Saturday ensured that there will be no unbeaten team in college basketball this season.

Despite trailing by 15 points with just over 13 minutes remaining, the Badgers battled back, using the 3-point shot to get themselves back in the game. Wisconsin hit 12-of-24 from long distance, five of which came from Jordan Taylor, who finished with 27 points and 7 assists. Over those final 13 minutes, Taylor had 21 points and 4 assists.

It was the national breakout party for Taylor, who was quietly averaging 17.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 4.7 apg before Saturday’s game.

From the Wisconsin State Journal:

UW coach Bo Ryan’s advice was to frame Taylor’s performance because it, like the victory, was one for the ages.

“I don’t think there’s too many players in the country that have ever done (that) — not just this year but at any time — against the No. 1 team in the country,” Ryan said. “And they earned the No. 1. It isn’t early in the season. It’s not November or December. Ohio State worked their way to that spot and they’re a very good team.”

Ohio State’s loss opens the door for another team possibly taking over the top ranking on Monday. Kansas, Texas and Pittsburgh all had impressive wins over the weekend, making their claim for No. 1. However, the Buckeyes still have as good a case as any with their only loss coming by four points in a tough road enviornment. Regardless, those four teams along with Duke appear to be the national title contenders.