2013 Rose Bowl MVP Watch: Wisconsin RB James White

As underdogs to the Stanford Cardinal in the 2013 Rose Bowl, the Wisconsin Badgers will likely need a few tricks to pull off the victory. Some of them may come in the hands of James White, the Badger running back who ran for four touchdowns and threw for another in the team's Big Ten Championship victory.

James took a key position in the offense in 2012 on direct snap plays, showing the ability to put down the snap count and direct the play. That led to the touchdown pass in the title game, White's first career pass. The junior has put in respectable numbers on the ground this season, totaling 802 yards on 119 carries, a 6.7 yards per carry average.

Wisconsin has leaned heavily on a rushing attack this season, and White has helped keep defenses on their toes. Montee Ball has most of the carries, but White's speed on the edges and evasiveness give the attack depth and variety. If Stanford's run defense is prepared for Ball, Wisconsin may catch them off guard with White, which may leave him with his hands on the MVP trophy.

The 2013 Rose Bowl Game takes place on Tuesday, January 1 in Pasadena. Kickoff is at 5:00 p.m. PST, with television coverage provided by ESPN.