The timing is ripe for Nebraska to end its 10-game losing streak to Wisconsin.

The Badgers came tantalizing close to upsetting top-ranked Oregon at home last Saturday. The Badgers lost, 16-13, because of a phantom chop block penalty and the ineffectiveness of redshirt sophomore quarterback Brayden Locke, who has been the replacement for injured starter Tyler Van Dyke.

Wisconsin coach Luke Fickell fired Phil Longo, his offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, following that loss. A replacement has yet to be named.

Nebraska freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola has regressed after an impressive first five games. Raiola, though, is better than Locke, who has completed only 55.1 percent of his passes and has a 9-to-9 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

It's going to prove difficult for Wisconsin to get motivated in this tough road setting after suffering such a tough defeat to the Ducks.

Wisconsin hasn't played well against quality defenses. The Badgers are averaging a meager 12 points during their last three games having faced Oregon, Iowa and Penn State. The Badgers couldn't break 300 yards of offense against any of those teams.

The Cornhuskers rank in the top-28 in fewest points and yards allowed per game. They are holding foes to an average of 11.8 points and 291 yards at home.

The Badgers could be without two of their most important players, both of whom were hurt against Oregon. Those players are Will Pauling, who leads Wisconsin in receptions by a wide margin with 42, and safety Hunter Wohler, who leads the Badgers in tackles.

(Editor's note: Stephen Nover is enjoying another winning college football season. Stephen has three premium CFB Saturday plays in addition to this free selection, including his Big 12 Game of the Year.)