TAMPA (MV) — As the first quarter draws to an end with Wisconsin and Tennessee tied up at 7, it seems an opportune occasion to relay a few general game notes that might otherwise escape the lens of television cameras.
Volunteer fans do seem to have a slight edge on Badger fans quantitatively speaking, blanketing the east side of the field, the north end zone and stretching slightly into the south end zone as well. And while Wisconsin's loyal legions have attempted to compensate for this deficiency by being plentifully vocal, the open nature of Raymond James Stadium prohibits the decibel levels from getting too fierce on either end of the arena.
The Outback Bowl mid-field logo, clearly laid after the Buccaneers' home game this past weekend and destined to be plucked up before Tampa plays host to a playoff game this coming weekend, is already showing some wear. Even before the game it hardly blended into the playing field, and now is none the better for cleat marks wholly reminiscent of golf divots.
Finally, it is worth noting that at kickoff it was 70 degrees outside, with a 20% chance of rain and winds out of the north/northwest.