MADISON, Wisc. -- As if trying to tackle a greased pig, Penn State's offense this season frequently allows prime opportunities to slip out of its grasp.

Saturday against Wisconsin, the Nittany Lions did little to buck the trend.

Penn State's offense began two drives from within 40 yards of Wisconsin's end zone, and still came away with zero points on both occasions. The fortunate field position resulted from fumbles forced by Dan Connor and Sean Lee.

"This is big-time football with big-time players on both sides of the ball, and people are going to take advantage of mistakes," Anthony Morelli said. "I'm speechless because I'm so frustrated."

Morelli's frustration began Saturday when, after Penn State took possession at the Badgers 14-yard line, a pass intended for Derrick Williams was tipped by a defender and intercepted by free safety Roderick Rogers.

"That's a classic example of how it's not so much what happens over the course of the game - it's how you react to it," Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema said.

The offensive line did not react well after poor protection helped cause Penn State's final drive to stall at the Wisconsin 48. In the seconds after Morelli's hurried fourth down pass fell incomplete, right tackle Chris Auletta stayed on the field and jawed at guard Rich Ohrnberger.

Wisconsin beat the offensive protection for four sacks on the day, including three in the fourth quarter - each taking place on plays originating within Badger territory.

After another poor performance, the players feel miserable. A look at the numbers won't make them feel any better.

The Lions' receivers haven't scored a touchdown in eight weeks. Penn State's offense scored a total of three touchdowns in the past four weeks.

Penn State rushed for 36 yards, averaging 1.9 yards per attempt. Tony Hunt (35 yards) was held to fewer than 40 yards in a game for the third time this season.

"We really zeroed in on the running back," Wisconsin defensive end Joe Monty said. "We wanted to get under him and get in his head and I think we were able to accomplish that."

The shortcomings of the ground game were never more apparent than on fourth-and-1 from the Wisconsin 31. With 8:13 to play and in need of some points to lessen the 13-3 deficit, the Lions tossed right to Hunt, who was met in the backfield by a gaggle of defenders. Penn State's offensive line was overwhelmed, and the play resulted in a four-yard loss.

"The linemen can only block so many people and we really didn't execute like we should," said Morelli.

Poor execution wasn't completely Penn State's fault, though, as the productive play of the Badger defense accounted for many a miscue.

Wisconsin was one of the more physical teams to go up against the Lions this year, causing Penn State much discomfort.

"That is the main thing we need to instill in our heads - we need to be the most physical team out there," cornerback Allen Langford said.

And, on Saturday, the Badgers were.