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The No. 12 Michigan is undefeated since opening with a seven-point loss to Notre Dame, creating momentum and self-confidence while waiting for its next opportunity to win an impressive victory.
The Wolverines (5-1, 3-0 Big Ten) will not have to wait much longer.
Wisconsin number 15 (4-1, 2-0) comes to play Saturday night at the Big House in the limelight in what could turn out to be a pivotal match in the championship race of the conference.
"Everyone knew it would be an important game early in the year," said Michigan guard Ben Bredeson. "Badgers are always good, we are always good."
The Badgers were great at Big Ten in the regular season, winning a record 17 straight, but they are overlooked by eight points.
"We find out who we are as a team facing one of the best teams on our schedule," said Cota Dixon, a member of Wisconsin's security. "It will be fun, it will be exciting, it will be a challenge."
Michigan will know a lot more about his team shortly after hosting the Badgers, played at Michigan State and faced No. 8 Penn State in his next three games.
"It's an important step for our season," acknowledged Bredeson. "I think everyone is a lot tighter this week, making sure all the details are in order and nothing is left behind."
Here are some things to watch:
DOS PACK
Second-year star Jonathan Taylor draws the most attention in the background as the country's best rider, averaging 169.8 yards per game. His backups are not too bad. Garrett Groshek emerged as Wisconsin's No. 3 seed and as a key player in 2-minute situations. The former quarterback is third in the team in race and reception. Taiwan Deal can also provide valuable snapshots to spell Taylor. He racked up 74 yards in 10 races last week against Nebraska, including a 20-yard touchdown at the best in his career.
THIS IS DELICATE
Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, who has participated in many unique plays, said he was looking for something that an opposing coach has been doing in previous years.
"In an offensive and defensive manner, schematically, you are preparing to do something, even if you have not seen it," he said. "You are always on the lookout for what could happen."
SECONDARY QUESTIONS
Injuries accumulate in the Wisconsin Junior High. Cornerback Caesar Williams and Travian Blaylock missed last week's game because of leg injuries. Deron Harrell left the Nebraska game in the second quarter due to a head injury. They are all listed as doubtful. The Badgers turned to another freshman, Rachad Wildgoose, when Harrell fell. What could do so much harm in the absence of security, Scott Nelson, who will miss the first half of the Michigan match after being designated to target in the second half against Nebraska. The Huskers were able to compete on two deep balls against Nelson.
CHOICE OF CHILDREN
Some Michigan fans have criticized Shea Patterson on social media and Harbaugh has chosen to disseminate the situation by rallying to the analysis done by his quarterback daughter.
"Let me tell you this: my daughter Katie, 7, who does not play any sport," said Harbaugh. "She does not want to play sports, does not want to play sports, she does Girl Scouts, and even Katie says the quarterback plays very well."
What about critics who say that the offense is not interesting?
"I'll go with Katie," Harbaugh said.
JUST FOR FUN
Wisconsin kicker Rafael Gaglianone is a goal in the 66th of his career, a record that would break the school record established by Todd Gregoire from 1984 to 1987. He missed only one six goals of the season.
"I was lucky enough to be around him," coach Paul Chryst said.
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