College Football Playoff: 5 Teams Who Can Win 2015 Title Without Top QB

Jan 1, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Melvin Gordon (25) is congratulated by fullback Derek Watt (34) and teammates after he scored a touchdown against the Auburn Tigers during the second half in the 2015 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Wisconsin Badgers defeated the Auburn Tigers 34-31 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

No. 3: Wisconsin Badgers

Why they can win it: Running Attack, Ball Hawks in Secondary, Offensive Line
What help will they need: Depth at Wide Receiver, Better Play on D-Line
Who’s in their way: Ohio State, Michigan State, Michigan

The Badgers are another Big Ten team who could potentially unseat the Buckeyes, but they’ll need to tighten up that defensive line and play better against the run, particularly running quarterbacks.

Wiscy always has a top running back, and even losing Melvin Gordon they’ll probably find another back to pick up where he left off. Corey Clement nearly reached 1,000 yards in the shadow of Gordon last season and he could be their go-to guy this season.

Joel Stave can lead this team, and he can keep things moving with the right support, but if the Badgers are forced into passing situations, we see the type of play that led to at 9-10 TD/INT ratio for Stave last season. His wide receivers have to step up, run better routes, and keep possession of the ball on longer down-and-distance situations.

Next: Georgia