Waiting to Exhale

In. Out. In. Out. In. Out. This repetition accounted for the majority of my thoughts during the game against Wisconsin last night- reminding myself to breathe. It was hard; many times I found myself holding my breath, waiting for the play to unfold. Sometimes, things went in favor of the Bucks. Other times, they did not. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about; I can't imagine you were watching stoically. I can't imagine anyone was. Except maybe Terrelle Pryor. From what I hear, he likes to keep quiet on the sidelines. And when you see him playing, waiting in the pocket for what seems to be an eternity; I can't help but wonder…

Am I going to be able to relax at all during this game?

20-17. Yes, it's a win. Thank goodness. For a while, it seemed like the Bucks were going to pull another Coliseum-style effort. Started off hot, but fizzled down to nothing after a drive or two. But, this time, as the second half rolled around, the Bucks managed to pull it together and get the victory. It wasn't easy, and it wasn't always pretty. In fact, it was downright nerve-wracking. I haven't felt that uncomfortable for such a long period of time since finals week of 2003, when my Accounting 211 exam wasn't until the last dreaded day.

One of the main reasons the game seemed so stressful was Pryor's actions in the backfield. Or should I say, lack of action in the backfield. Several times, it seemed like he had all day to make a play. Pryor's freshman status became apparent, as it seemed he struggled with making snap decisions (cue music- he can't be held responsible, he was merely a freshman). He came through when it mattered however, namely the final possession. He hit Robiskie twice, Small once, and ended the drive with a well-earned rushing TD. All of those plays nearly stopped my heart, as it seemed like Pryor was on the verge of going down each play. Despite getting sacked four times in earlier drives, Pryor came through big-time during the six final heart-wrenching minutes.

Another major factor adding to the stress of the game was the defense- especially in the first half. Flashbacks to Los Angeles. Seemed like the D couldn't stop Wisconsin's passing game to save their life. Again, they came through when it mattered most, and stepped up during the second quarter. Seemed like the Badgers faced a lot of third down situations (almost as many as pairs of shoes that I own); and in the first half, converted several of them. The second half, however, belonged to the Buckeyes and the D made several key third down stops. Hats off to ‘The Animal and Co.’ for coming through, big time.

All in all, I guess I'll take this game for what it was- a well deserved win. We came into Camp Randall, saw, and conquered. Didn't hear much along the way, thanks to some marching band shenanigans, but we got the victory. Next up: Pur-Don't. As in, I don't expect much competition from Joe Tiller's boys. Knock on wood.

Go Bucks! O-H…