The 2012 Rose Bowl is in the books, with the Oregon Ducks claiming their first Rose Bowl victory in 95 years with a 45-38 triumph over the Wisconsin Badgers. In a game filled with stars and great performances, there were many choices for MVP. Wide receiver Lavasier Tuinei took home offensive MVP honors, while limebacker Kiko Alonso grabbed defensive MVP honors.
Tuinei grabbed eight catches for 158 yards and two touchdowns, one of many offensive stars for Oregon. Freshman De'Anthony Thomas had two rushes for 155 yards and two touchdowns, four catches for 35 yards, and six kick returns for 125 yards, and would have been a worthy choice. LaMichael James ran for 159 yards and a touchdown, and quarterback Darron Thomas completed 17 of 23 passes for 269 yards and three touchdowns of his own.
Alonso made his presence known with 1.5 sacks in the game, and also intercepted Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson late in the third quarter. Alonso's pick was just the fourth interception all season for Wilson.
For more news on Wisconsin football be sure to read Bucky's 5th Quarter. For more Oregon football analysis, Addicted To Quack.