Wisconsin football is a contender in a crowded Big Ten West
By Shane Lunnen
New assistants look to kickstart the offense
After an offense that finished 85th nationally in scoring offense a year ago, the Badgers have four new assistant coaches on board to shake things up. New offensive coordinator Bobby Engram will call plays for the first time in his coaching career. Engram will use an updated scheme but should still play to the Badgers’ strength of running the ball.
The Badgers may have found their latest star running back in Braelon Allen. A true freshman a year ago, he rushed for 1,268 yards with a 6.8 yards per carry average with 12 touchdowns. Chez Mellusi had his season cut short with an injury at Rutgers but should be ready to go this year to also contribute out of the backfield. The duo looks to become the third set of Badger running backs to rush for 1,000 yards each in the same season.
Wisconsin is known for its impressive offensive lines and this year should be no different. They return three starters. Redshirt sophomore left tackle Jack Nelson may be the best of the bunch.
Under center for a third year, Graham Mertz is at a crossroads in his collegiate career. A highly touted quarterback when he signed with the Badgers in 2019, Mertz has failed to live up to the hype thus far. A year ago he threw for 1,958 yards but tossed 11 interceptions with only 10 touchdowns. He also coughed up four fumbles.
The Badgers finished 120th in the country in passing a year ago. Mertz must improve and cutting down on the turnovers would be a good start.
Badgers will also need to replace their top three receivers, including tight end Jake Ferguson. Junior Chimere Dike has the most experience returning and the Badgers also added UCLA transfer Keontez Lewis.