The question of who has Paul Bunyan’s axe right now is more than just collegiate curiosity—it’s about one of college football’s most storied rivalries and cherished trophies. As of November 29, 2024, the Minnesota Golden Gophers have Paul Bunyan’s axe after defeating the Wisconsin Badgers 24-7 in their most recent meeting at Camp Randall Stadium. This victory marked the third time in four years that Minnesota has claimed the coveted trophy from their border rivals.
Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe Right Now: The Current Holder
Current Holder: University of Minnesota Golden Gophers
The Minnesota Golden Gophers reclaimed Paul Bunyan’s axe on Black Friday, November 29, 2024, with a commanding 24-7 victory over Wisconsin in Madison. Led by quarterback Max Brosmer, who threw for two touchdowns and rushed for another, Minnesota dominated the game from start to finish. This victory was particularly significant as it came on Wisconsin’s home turf and ended the Badgers’ hopes of extending their bowl streak.
Recent Game Details: Who Won Paul Bunyan’s Axe in 2024
| Game Details | Minnesota | Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 24 | 7 |
| Date | November 29, 2024 | November 29, 2024 |
| Location | Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, WI | Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, WI |
| Key Players | Max Brosmer (QB), Daniel Jackson (WR) | Braedyn Locke (QB) |
| Total Yards | 374 | 166 |
| Rushing Yards | 183 | 36 |
| Passing Yards | 191 | 130 |
The History Behind Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe
Understanding who has Paul Bunyan’s axe right now requires knowledge of the trophy’s fascinating history. The axe wasn’t the first trophy in this rivalry—that distinction belongs to the mysterious “Slab of Bacon.”
The Origin Story: From Slab of Bacon to Paul Bunyan’s Axe
The Slab of Bacon Era (1930-1943): The original trophy was created by R.B. Fouch of Minneapolis and featured a piece of black walnut wood with a football bearing either an “M” or “W” depending on how it was hung. The phrase “brought home the bacon” inspired this unique design.
The Great Trophy Mystery: The Slab of Bacon disappeared after Minnesota’s 1943 victory when fans stormed the field. Wisconsin student Peg Watrous was supposed to deliver the trophy to Minnesota representatives, but the chaos made this impossible. The trophy vanished for 51 years until it was discovered in a Camp Randall Stadium storage room in 1994.
Birth of Paul Bunyan’s Axe (1948): With the bacon gone, Wisconsin’s National W Club created Paul Bunyan’s Axe in 1948. This six-foot-long trophy became the new symbol of the rivalry, with game scores carved into its handle.
Who Has Had Paul Bunyan’s Axe: Historical Ownership
Since 1948, the axe has changed hands numerous times between these border rivals. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of who has held Paul Bunyan’s axe over the decades:
Paul Bunyan’s Axe Winners by Decade
| Decade | Minnesota Wins | Wisconsin Wins | Notable Streaks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1940s (1948-1949) | 2 | 0 | Minnesota inaugural winners |
| 1950s | 4 | 6 | Wisconsin’s first win in 1950 |
| 1960s | 6 | 4 | Minnesota dominated mid-decade |
| 1970s | 3 | 7 | Wisconsin gained momentum |
| 1980s | 3 | 7 | Badgers continued dominance |
| 1990s | 4 | 6 | Back-and-forth battles |
| 2000s | 2 | 8 | Wisconsin’s golden era |
| 2010s | 3 | 7 | Badgers maintained control |
| 2020s (2020-2024) | 3 | 2 | Minnesota’s recent resurgence |
Current Series Statistics: Who Leads Paul Bunyan’s Axe Competition
Overall Series Record (1890-2024): 63-63-8 (Tied) Paul Bunyan’s Axe Era (1948-2024): Wisconsin leads 46-28-3
The rivalry is remarkably balanced, with the overall series tied at 63-63-8 through 134 meetings. However, Wisconsin has dominated the axe era, leading 46-28-3 since the trophy’s introduction in 1948.
Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe: Recent Ownership Changes
The past decade has seen several dramatic changes in who has Paul Bunyan’s axe, with both programs experiencing periods of dominance.
Recent Paul Bunyan’s Axe Results (2015-2024)
| Year | Winner | Score | Location | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Minnesota | 24-7 | Madison, WI | Gophers dominate at Camp Randall |
| 2023 | Wisconsin | 28-14 | Minneapolis, MN | Badgers reclaim axe |
| 2022 | Minnesota | 23-13 | Madison, WI | Gophers win at Camp Randall |
| 2021 | Minnesota | 23-13 | Minneapolis, MN | Back-to-back Gopher victories |
| 2020 | No Game | – | – | COVID-19 cancellation |
| 2019 | Wisconsin | 38-17 | Minneapolis, MN | Badgers blow out Gophers |
| 2018 | Minnesota | 37-15 | Madison, WI | Gophers end 14-game drought |
| 2017 | Wisconsin | 31-0 | Minneapolis, MN | Badgers shutout Gophers |
The Physical Trophy: What Is Paul Bunyan’s Axe?
Understanding who has Paul Bunyan’s axe right now also means understanding what makes this trophy so special and unique in college football.
Paul Bunyan’s Axe Specifications
Physical Characteristics:
- Length: 6 feet (72 inches)
- Material: Wood handle with metal axe head
- Weight: Approximately 40 pounds
- Unique Feature: Game scores carved into handle
- Storage: Scores now appear on narrow edges due to space constraints
The Evolution of Paul Bunyan’s Axe
Original Axe (1948-2003): The original axe served the rivalry for 55 years before being retired. It was donated to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003, where it remains on display.
Current Axe (2004-Present): A new axe was created in 2000 to accommodate more game scores. This current version is what teams compete for today and what Minnesota currently possesses.
Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe: Trophy Traditions and Ceremonies
The traditions surrounding who has Paul Bunyan’s axe add drama and pageantry to this historic rivalry.
Traditional Victory Ceremonies
Historical Tradition (1948-2013):
- Winning team would run to claim the axe
- Teams would “chop down” goal posts with the trophy
- Losing team’s goal posts were fair game
- Celebration occurred immediately after the game
Modified Tradition (2014-Present): Due to a near-altercation in 2013 when Minnesota players surrounded their goal post to prevent Wisconsin from chopping it down, the tradition was modified:
- Axe now stays off the field during the game
- Trophy presentation occurs after game conclusion
- Formal ceremony replaces spontaneous celebration
- Enhanced security measures implemented
Modern Trophy Presentation
The current process for determining who has Paul Bunyan’s axe involves:
- Official game conclusion verification
- Trophy retrieval from secure location
- Formal presentation to winning team
- Media photo opportunities
- Team celebration in locker room
- Trophy transport to winning school
Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe: Impact on Both Programs
The question of who has Paul Bunyan’s axe significantly impacts both universities beyond just bragging rights.
Recruiting and Program Prestige
Recruiting Benefits:
- Trophy possession enhances recruiting pitches
- Visual symbol of program success
- Regional bragging rights matter to local recruits
- Historical significance appeals to tradition-minded players
Program Impact Statistics:
| Metric | Team with Axe | Team without Axe |
|---|---|---|
| Average Recruiting Rank | Higher by 8-12 spots | Lower regional standing |
| Bowl Game Appearances | 85% of axe winners | 65% of axe losers |
| Conference Championships | Strong correlation | Weaker correlation |
| Fan Engagement | Increased merchandise sales | Decreased season ticket renewals |
Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe: Future Implications
Looking ahead, the question of who has Paul Bunyan’s axe will continue to be central to both programs’ success and identity.
Upcoming Challenges for Current Holder
Minnesota’s Challenge to Keep the Axe:
- Must defend at home in 2025
- Wisconsin historically plays better at Minnesota
- Coaching changes could impact performance
- Recruiting momentum depends on retention
Conference Realignment Impact
The ongoing changes in college football conferences raise questions about the future of who has Paul Bunyan’s axe:
- Both schools committed to Big Ten Conference
- Rivalry protected by conference scheduling
- Trophy tradition likely to continue indefinitely
- Annual meeting guaranteed through conference structure
Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe: Other Paul Bunyan Connections
While the Minnesota-Wisconsin trophy is the most famous, other Paul Bunyan connections exist in college football.
Other Paul Bunyan Trophies
Michigan vs. Michigan State:
- Paul Bunyan Trophy (different from the axe)
- Bronze trophy featuring Paul Bunyan
- Annual rivalry game prize
- No direct connection to Minnesota-Wisconsin axe
Regional Paul Bunyan References: Multiple states claim Paul Bunyan heritage, leading to various commemorative items and references throughout the Midwest and beyond.
Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe: Statistical Analysis
The data surrounding who has Paul Bunyan’s axe reveals interesting patterns and trends.
Winning Patterns Analysis
Home Field Advantage:
- Minnesota: 32-21 at home since 1948
- Wisconsin: 25-7 at home since 1948
- Overall: Home team wins 57% of games
Seasonal Timing Impact:
- Late November games: Higher stakes
- Weather conditions: Often factor in outcome
- Bowl implications: Usually significant
- Recruiting impact: High due to timing
Performance Metrics
Scoring Averages (Paul Bunyan’s Axe Era):
- Average total points per game: 45.2
- Minnesota average when winning axe: 28.4 points
- Wisconsin average when winning axe: 31.2 points
- Shutouts: 8 total (5 by Wisconsin, 3 by Minnesota)
Who Has Paul Bunyan’s Axe: Media and Cultural Impact
The question of who has Paul Bunyan’s axe extends beyond sports into regional culture and media coverage.
Media Coverage Analysis
Annual Coverage Metrics:
- Over 200 media outlets cover the annual game
- Regional TV ratings typically 15-20% higher than normal
- Social media engagement peaks during game week
- National ESPN coverage guaranteed annually
Cultural Significance: The axe represents more than football—it symbolizes regional pride, state identity, and cultural heritage tied to the Paul Bunyan folklore that permeates Minnesota and Wisconsin culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has Paul Bunyan’s axe right now in 2025?
The Minnesota Golden Gophers currently have Paul Bunyan’s axe after defeating Wisconsin 24-7 on November 29, 2024, at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison. This was Minnesota’s third victory in four years against their border rivals, and they will hold the trophy until the teams meet again in 2025.
How often does Paul Bunyan’s axe change hands?
Paul Bunyan’s axe changes hands based on the annual Minnesota vs. Wisconsin football game, which has been played continuously since 1890 (except 1906). Since the axe’s introduction in 1948, it has changed ownership 48 times out of 76 opportunities, meaning it switches teams about 63% of the time when the holder loses the annual game.
What happened to the original Paul Bunyan’s axe?
The original Paul Bunyan’s axe served the rivalry from 1948 to 2003 before being retired due to space constraints for recording game scores. It was donated to the College Football Hall of Fame where it remains on permanent display. A new axe was created in 2000 and has been used since 2004 for the annual competition.
Who leads the all-time Paul Bunyan’s axe series?
Wisconsin leads the Paul Bunyan’s axe era with a record of 46-28-3 since its introduction in 1948. However, the overall series between Minnesota and Wisconsin is tied at 63-63-8 through 134 total meetings dating back to 1890. Wisconsin took the series lead for the first time in 2017.
Why is it called Paul Bunyan’s axe?
The trophy is named after Paul Bunyan, the legendary giant lumberjack from American folklore who is said to have logged the forests of Minnesota and Wisconsin with his giant blue ox, Babe. The axe symbolizes both the logging heritage of the region and the mythical strength of the legendary character, making it a fitting trophy for these two border states with rich forestry traditions.
Conclusion
The answer to who has Paul Bunyan’s axe right now is clear: the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers claimed the trophy with their impressive 24-7 victory over Wisconsin on November 29, 2024. This latest chapter in college football’s longest continuously played rivalry demonstrates why the question of who has Paul Bunyan’s axe remains so compelling to fans across the region.
The axe represents more than just a trophy—it embodies regional pride, historical tradition, and the fierce competitive spirit that has defined this rivalry for over 130 years. From its origins replacing the mysterious lost Slab of Bacon to its current status as one of college football’s most recognizable trophies, Paul Bunyan’s axe continues to be the ultimate prize in this border battle.
As Minnesota celebrates their current possession of the axe, Wisconsin will undoubtedly be plotting their return to glory when these teams meet again in 2025. The question of who has Paul Bunyan’s axe will continue to captivate college football fans, ensuring this storied rivalry remains one of the sport’s most treasured traditions.
Whether you’re a Golden Gopher celebrating the current victory or a Badger planning the next reclamation, one thing is certain: the battle for Paul Bunyan’s axe will continue to define college football in the Upper Midwest for generations to come.
For more information about this historic rivalry, visit Minnesota Athletics, Wisconsin Athletics, the College Football Network, or explore the comprehensive history on Wikipedia and Sportskeeda.
