The Falcons were supposed to undergo a rebuilding project.

BGSU coach Gregg Brandon indicated up to 28 freshmen would receive playing time this year. All the skills players from last year's offense needed replacing.

Against Wisconsin, the Falcons were able to move the ball and freshman quarterback Freddie Barnes amazed the Badgers with his running ability. Barnes rushed for 150 yards and passed for 82 yards, scoring both of BGSU's touchdowns.

In fact, Wisconsin barely won the total offensive yardage battle, compiling 321 yards to Bowling Green State's 301. The Falcons had trouble holding onto the ball but showed some sparks of life in Saturday's 35-14 loss to Wisconsin.

"We made too many mistakes to win this football game," Brandon said. "But there were a lot of good things done out there on the field."

GAME BALL GOES TO: QB Freddie Barnes -- Playing his first collegiate game, Barnes lit up the Badgers for 150 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Barnes' speed and moves were too much for the Badgers to handle. The redshirt freshman also passed for 82 yards.

KEEP AN EYE ON: TB Dan Macon -- The Falcons scored on their first drive of the game partly on the hard-running of Macon. The 6-foot-1, 210-pounder rushed for 37 yards on 13 carries.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "We didn't execute in the kicking game and that's what got us." --- BGSU coach Gregg Brandon referring to miscues in the punting game that accounted for 14 Wisconsin points.

LOOKING GOOD: Even with a quarterback without a down of experience, the Falcons moved the ball effectively. The offense, led by redshirt freshman Freddie Barnes, scored on their first drive and ended with 301 yards of total offense. Barnes accounted for a team-high 150 rushing yards, dazzling the Badgers with his spin moves and speed. Barnes scored both of Bowling Green State's touchdowns.

QB Freddie Barnes was impressive running the ball in his first college game.

FB Pete Winovich saved a drive with a 16-yard run on fourth down.

DB Kenny Lewis ended a scoring drive with an interception in the end zone.

STILL NEEDS WORK: Bowling Green State's special teams play is a big concern. Freshman punter Alonso Rojas had a punt blocked into the end zone, and shanked another punt which led to another score for Wisconsin.

P Alonso Rojas had trouble getting on track. This issue must be fixed.

WR Ruben Ruiz led the Falcons with three catches for 20 yards. Need a bigger showing from an experienced senior to take the pressure of quarterback Freddie Barnes.

WR Kenneth Brantley dropped a key pass along the sidelines that ended a drive.

ROSTER REPORT: CB Antonio Smith left the game early with an ankle issue.