College Football Rankings 2020: Projected AP Top 25 for Week 8
By Zach Bigalke
Pick Analysis. idle in Week 7. 0-0. Wisconsin Badgers. 15. player. 809. Scouting Report
Wisconsin was already dealing with the loss of several key parts from their 2019 offensive roster, including standout running back Jonathan Taylor and three starters from the offensive line. Now they must also deal with the loss of quarterback Jack Coan for an indefinite period of time after the senior suffered a foot injury in practice that required surgery. That hasn’t prevented Wisconsin from creeping ever closer to their preseason No. 12 ranking in the AP Top 25.
Where Wisconsin has much fewer question marks is in their defense. A group that allowed only 287 yards and 17 points per game in 2019 brings back 81 percent of its production from that side of the ball. Other than linebackers Zach Baun and Chris Orr, the Badgers bring back 18 of their top 20 tacklers from last year’s roster. That should ensure that Wisconsin stays competitive in every game on their schedule.
The 2020 season begins in Madison in Week 8 with a home showdown against the Illinois team that dished out Wisconsin’s first loss last year. The Badgers will be looking to exact revenge and gain momentum as they look to repeat as Big Ten West champions.