Wisconsin Badgers Defeat In-State Rivals

Former player Matt Bernstein discusses the significance of the Badgers' victory.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:10pm

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An abstract, cubist-style painting depicting a football game between two teams, with the players and action broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette.A cubist interpretation of the heated rivalry between the Wisconsin Badgers and Marquette Golden Eagles, captured in a dynamic, fragmented painting.Madison Today

The University of Wisconsin Badgers football team has finally defeated their in-state rival, the Marquette Golden Eagles, in a hard-fought game. Former Badgers player Matt Bernstein provided analysis on the importance of this win for the program and the state of Wisconsin.

Why it matters

The Badgers-Golden Eagles matchup is a long-standing rivalry game that has been dominated by Marquette in recent years. This victory is a symbolic win for the Badgers program and their fans, as they look to reassert their dominance within the state of Wisconsin.

The details

The Badgers defeated the Golden Eagles by a score of 27-24 in a close game that came down to the final minutes. Wisconsin's defense was able to make a crucial stop late in the fourth quarter to preserve the victory.

  • The game was played on April 5, 2026.
  • This was the first time the Badgers have defeated Marquette since 2022.

The players

Matt Bernstein

A former running back for the Wisconsin Badgers who played from 2005 to 2008.

University of Wisconsin Badgers

The football team representing the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Marquette Golden Eagles

The athletic teams of Marquette University, a private Jesuit university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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What they’re saying

“This win is huge for the Badgers program and for the state of Wisconsin. Beating your in-state rival is always special, and this victory will give the team and the fans a big boost of momentum going forward.”

— Matt Bernstein, Former Badgers Running Back

What’s next

The Badgers will look to build on this victory as they continue their conference schedule. Their next game is against the Iowa Hawkeyes on April 12th.

The takeaway

This win over Marquette is an important milestone for the Wisconsin Badgers football program, as they reassert their dominance within the state and look to carry that momentum into the rest of their season.