Ball hurt but Badgers still pull out win over UTEP

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MADISON - Wisconsin’s offense was more effective – even without Heisman hopeful Montee Ball for much of the game – as the Badgers whipped Texas-El Paso 37-26.

Ball was knocked out in the first half after scoring a touchdown. With last year’s nation-leading scorer standing on the sidelines, James White scored twice and Melvin Gordon pounded his way to 112 yards rushings. Jared Abbrederis returned from a concussion to grab a 47 yard TD pass as Wisconsin won for the 26th straight time at home against a non-conference foe.

The visitors scored 13 points in a row to cut the lead to 23-19 with eight minutes left, but Wisconsin recovered a fumble and that led to a six-pointer from Gordon on the very next play.

Ball spent the second half on the sidelines in street clothes. He will be checked for a head injury. Wisconsin’s record is 3-1 with the victory, while UTEP falls to 1-3.

Tags: wisconsin sports, proam, badgers, football