T.J. Watt extends Wisconsin lead over Purdue with pick-six (Video)

Wisconsin linebacker T.J. Watt made his older brother proud by making a crucial play for the Badgers in the first half.

No. 7 Wisconsin is looking to keep their slim playoff hopes alive as they are facing Purdue in a road matchup. The Badgers have stormed out to a comfortable lead over the Boilermakers following a slow first quarter. They lead, 35-10, at halftime following a spectacular defensive play. Wisconsin linebacker T.J. Watt intercepted a pass after blocking it. He took it 17 yards to the house for a touchdown, which opened a bigger gap in the score.

The Badgers linebacker is the younger brother of Houston Texans star defensive end J.J. Watt. Ever since J.J. rose to stardom in the NFL, T.J. and his brother, Derek, have carried on the family tradition of playing Wisconsin football. Like his brother, Watt leads the team in sacks with seven as of last week’s game.

Watt is also capable of making big plays when needed, just like the two-time Defensive Player of the Year. The Texans star is also known for sometimes intercepting passes that are thrown right in his direction. The perennial Pro Bowler has logged his fair share of pick-sixes throughout his NFL career. It remains to be seen whether T.J. will achieve significant NFL success as well.

With a win, the Badgers would improve their record to 9-2. Their only losses have been close ones against No. 2 Ohio State and No. 4 Michigan. It remains to be seen whether they can receive help from other teams to rise in the rankings. Ohio State is currently on upset alert against Michigan State though. This would undoubtedly help the Badgers’ case for a playoff bid, especially if they can win out and capture the Big Ten title.

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The Badgers are already expected to reach the conference championship game. They have already defeated No. 18 Nebraska, who presents the only real threat to face Ohio State, Michigan or Penn State in the Big Ten Championship.