Coming off the Badgers’ double overtime 34-31 victory over Fresno State Saturday, UW football head coach Bret Bielema was pleased with his team’s performance.

According to Bielema, the overall attitude of his team and the play of his seniors were the biggest contributors down the stretch.

“A lot of positives out there … as I mentioned after the game the way they persevered and battled out there,” he said.

“Anytime your seniors are playing the best football of their careers you can feel good about the way the season’s going and them individually,” he continued. “It has a huge effect on the team.”

Bielema gave special recognition to a few of his star seniors, including linebacker O’Brien Schofield, tight end Garrett Graham, and safety Chris Maragos.

“[Garrett Graham], Saturday, played as good as he’s played in all phases,” Bielema said. “Chris Maragos to make two plays like that at the end of the game … something put Chris Maragos in position. I just knew he was just going to knock it down, but he makes a fingertip grab, and wins the game.”

John Clay earns next start

Even with a lot of the success being put on the shoulders of the seniors, sophomore running back John Clay still found his chunk of the spotlight. Bielema noted Clay’s 73-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter on Saturday, which gave the Badgers a lead at the time.

“That play from an offensive conceptual standpoint was as pretty as can be,” Bielema said. “It looked great. It was as good as good can get. … That’s what we needed to see.”

Clay’s performance allowed him to jump starter Zach Brown on the depth chart due to his ability to gain positive momentum for the team. Bielema hopes the sophomore’s strong play continues into Saturday’s game against Wofford.

“What we’d like to do is see John and how he takes the reins and see where he goes,” Bielema said. “The part I shared with John was, ‘Hey, you know, you got energized, the offense got energized, our defense went out and played with great energy.'”

Few concerns regarding FCS opponent Wofford

As the Badgers prepare for FCS opponent Wofford, Bielema explained the significance of playing teams from a lower division. He defended the staff’s reasoning for scheduling a game with an opponent in the FCS for the third straight year.

“[Wofford is a] very successful team in their division, and has had some success against some opponents in the non-conference scheduling,” Bielema said. “They played South Carolina a year ago. It’s just another example of a very good, well-coached football team that will come in here and give us their best shot, and another opportunity for the Badgers to improve and move forward.”

Swine flu still lingering in practice

Another concern facing the Badgers and coach Bielema is the wave of H1N1 virus making its way through the team. While the coaching staff thought the swine flu had passed through the Badger roster, two new players were diagnosed with the illness after the Fresno State game.

“The flu, I think, is through us, but on the same account we had two new guys pop up yesterday, so we’re kind of just going off what our medical staff and trainers have told us to, you know, handle when it comes up. … Hopefully the worst is behind us.”

However, despite the coaching staff’s concerns, Bielema addressed the importance of taking on these challenges and moving forward.

“It’s not what happens, it’s how you respond to what happens,” Bielema said. “That’s the part I get excited about.”