Big Ten Football - 2021 Wisconsin Badgers Preview
Our Wisconsin Badgers preview 2021 observes that this team may not be the best team in the Big Ten, but they are the best in the Western conference. Last season, the Badgers were 3-3 in the Big Ten and 4-3 overall. After finishing third in 2020, Wisconsin rolled over Wake Forest 42-28 in Duke’s Mayo Bowl. The last time they did not appear in a postseason contest was 2001. In 2020, as it has often been with the Badgers, their defense was key to their success. The team’s D allowed 299.9 YPG, which ranked first in the Big Ten and fifth in the nation.
Wisconsin Offense
Last season, freshman quarterback Graham Mertz came in like a lion and went out like a lamb. In his first game, he tossed five TD passes, tying a school record. But over the last six regular-season games, he struggled. It’s hoped that Mertz’s experience and head coach Paul Chryst’s decision to take over play calling will result in more consistency at quarterback. The team’s top three pass catchers from last year are back, including Jack Ferguson who recorded 30 catches for 304 yards. He also led the team in touchdowns with four.
Freshman Jalen Berger looked like the real thing last season, as he gained 301 yards over 60 carries and scored two times while averaging 5.0 YPA. Although Berger has a lot of potential, there’s very little backing him up. The offensive line has had its issues, but it’s expected that former five-star recruit Logan Brown and five-star freshman tackle Nolan Rucci will be major forces this season.
Wisconsin Badgers Preview 2021 - Defense
Last season, the Badger D was solid. The best news on this side of the ball is that coordinator Jim Leonhard, who could have gone to the Green Bay Packers, is back. Three players from last season are gone, including two-of-three from the line. DT Keeanu Benton, a senior, returns as the most experienced player. Oregon transfer Isaac Townsend is an important addition to the unit.
ILBs Jack Sanborn and Leo Chenal are an awesome duo. Sanborn led the team with 52 tackles, while Chanel topped the club with three sacks and was second in tackles with 46. OLB Nic Herbig needs to step up this season. Three-of-four starters in the secondary return, including free safety Scott Nelson who was good for three TFL, two PBU, and two INTs.
Specialists
Our Wisconsin Badgers preview 2021 observes that punter Andy Vujnovich proved himself last season, as he averaged 41.6 YPP and nailed 13-of-33 within the 20. Colin Larsh was 23-of-23 on extra points and five-of-seven on field goals. However, he could not nail one from the 40-beyond. In 2020 on returns, freshman Devin Chandler showed some moves and explosive speed. He’s a scoring threat.
Wisconsin Badgers Preview 2021 - Projection
Last season, Mertz ended up tossing nine TD passes and five picks while completing 61.1 percent of his passes. Five of those scores occurred in the first game. Our Wisconsin Badgers preview 2021notes that if Mertz can learn from his many mistakes, he’s bound to have a solid season. We expect the Badgers to nail down their share of wins and battle Ohio State for the Big Ten title.
Big Ten Football - Wisconsin Badgers 2021 - Predictions:
First Place - Big Ten West
Rose Bowl vs. Oregon