2008 Wisconsin Badgers Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, jwinslow, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
The Buckeyes travel to Madison, Wisconsin to play under the lights on Saturday. As Jim Tressel has been telling his players this week, it's s not a welcome place for visitors.
In 1942 under Paul Brown, the #1 Buckeyes went on the (rail)road to Madison. The team didn't take along its own water on that trip (as they had the previous year via the train to the USC game in Los Angeles), and the majority of the team came down with dysentery from contaminated water on the train. Ohio State lost 17-7 to a Wisconsin team led by Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch in what was dubbed the "Bad Water Game"; and dropped to #6 in the polls.
The next week tOSU gained 587 yards in routing Pitt (they were up 41-0 at halftime of the 59-19 final), and dropped to #10 - who knew that Mark May influenced poll voters way back then! They won their remaining games, an climbed all the way to the top of the poll to claim tOSU's first national championship. The Badgers finished the year 8-1-1 and ranked #3.
The 5 other times that the Buckeyes carried a #1 ranking into a game against the Badgers were all under Woody Hayes squads between 1964 to 1975. The average score in those games was 44-3, with the closest game being a 24-0 game in Madison in 1973.
Wisconsin was an inaugural member of the Western Conference, which evolved into the Big Ten. They won the first two conference championships in football, with a 2-0-1 mark in 1896 and a 3-0 record in 1897. They also claimed conference crowns in their only perfect seasons: 1901, 1906, and 1912. After that period, their next crown was 40 years away.
Ohio State is the only opponent that has ever faced a Wisconsin team ranked #1 in the AP football poll. In 1952, after #8 Wisconsin defeated a #2 Illinois team 20-6 in Madison, the team was vaulted to the #1 ranking for the only time in their football history. The next week the Badgers visited the 'Shoe and fell 23-14 to the Buckeyes. Wisconsin finished that season as co-Big Ten champions with Purdue. They also won Big Ten titles in 1959 and 1962, but lost the Rose Bowl in each of their 3 appearances between '52 and '62, and would not return until the 1990's under Barry Alvarez.
Those who have coached the Badgers include Harry Stuhldreher, one of Notre Dame's "Four Horsemen" in the 1920s. His teams went 45-62-6 (.425) between 1936-48. Similar to Paul Brown at Ohio State, the enlistments of World War II dramatically changed the fortunes of Stuhldreher's teams. After the 8-1-1 mark and #3 ranking in 1942, their record fell to 1-9 in 1943 due to many players having left the team; including Elroy Hirsch (who then lettered in 4 different sports at Michigan, where he was getting military training). Hirsch went on to a Hall-of-Fame career as an NFL receiver, and later spent 18 years as Wisconsin's Athletic Director.
From 1978 until 1985, the head man in Madison was Dave McClain, whose teams went 46-42-3 (.522). After a fatal heart attack in 1986 cut short his career at the age of 48, the Big Ten dedicated it's football Coach of the Year award in his honor.
Barry Alvarez, currently the Athletic Director in Madison, was the head football coach from 1990 through 2005. Prior to that, he was on Hayden Fry's staff at Iowa, and he was the DC on Lou Holtz's 1988 national championship team at Notre Dame. Barry's Badgers won the Rose Bowl in each of the seasons they garnered a Big Ten title: '93, '98, and '99.
1993 was a shared title with tOSU; the teams tied in Madison, and the Badgers claimed their share after they won their last conference game against Michigan State in a game called the Coca-Cola Classic in Tokyo. Barry is the only Big Ten coach to win Rose Bowls in consecutive seasons, and in 2006 a bronze statue of Alvarez was unveiled outside Camp Randall stadium.
The last time tOSU played in Madison was in 2003, so no current Buckeyes have played a game in Camp Randall. That game's two most memorable plays were not shining moments for Ohio State: Robert Reynolds choked Badger QB Jim Sorgi in a pile, knocking him out of the game. With a little over 5 minutes left in a tie game, backup QB Matt Schabert threw a karmic 79-yard TD to Lee Evans, who got Chris Gamble to bite on an out-and-up. That was the last scoring in a 17-10 game that broke tOSU's 19-game winning streak.
Before stepping down as head coach, Barry (already the AD) named Bret Bielema to be his successor. Bielema's first year was an excellent 12-1 campaign, including a Capital One Bowl win over Arkansas. Until last weekend, Bielema had a 19-0 record in games where the Bdgers held a halftrime lead. Blowing the 19-0 lead cost them what likely would have been a #7 ranking this week; instead they are between #16 and #18 depending on which poll you look at.
Buckeye fans hope that another streak for the Badgers under Bielema bites the dust on Saturday - the Badgers are 16-0 at home since he became their head coach.
Date and Time The next week tOSU gained 587 yards in routing Pitt (they were up 41-0 at halftime of the 59-19 final), and dropped to #10 - who knew that Mark May influenced poll voters way back then! They won their remaining games, an climbed all the way to the top of the poll to claim tOSU's first national championship. The Badgers finished the year 8-1-1 and ranked #3.
The 5 other times that the Buckeyes carried a #1 ranking into a game against the Badgers were all under Woody Hayes squads between 1964 to 1975. The average score in those games was 44-3, with the closest game being a 24-0 game in Madison in 1973.
Wisconsin was an inaugural member of the Western Conference, which evolved into the Big Ten. They won the first two conference championships in football, with a 2-0-1 mark in 1896 and a 3-0 record in 1897. They also claimed conference crowns in their only perfect seasons: 1901, 1906, and 1912. After that period, their next crown was 40 years away.
Ohio State is the only opponent that has ever faced a Wisconsin team ranked #1 in the AP football poll. In 1952, after #8 Wisconsin defeated a #2 Illinois team 20-6 in Madison, the team was vaulted to the #1 ranking for the only time in their football history. The next week the Badgers visited the 'Shoe and fell 23-14 to the Buckeyes. Wisconsin finished that season as co-Big Ten champions with Purdue. They also won Big Ten titles in 1959 and 1962, but lost the Rose Bowl in each of their 3 appearances between '52 and '62, and would not return until the 1990's under Barry Alvarez.
Those who have coached the Badgers include Harry Stuhldreher, one of Notre Dame's "Four Horsemen" in the 1920s. His teams went 45-62-6 (.425) between 1936-48. Similar to Paul Brown at Ohio State, the enlistments of World War II dramatically changed the fortunes of Stuhldreher's teams. After the 8-1-1 mark and #3 ranking in 1942, their record fell to 1-9 in 1943 due to many players having left the team; including Elroy Hirsch (who then lettered in 4 different sports at Michigan, where he was getting military training). Hirsch went on to a Hall-of-Fame career as an NFL receiver, and later spent 18 years as Wisconsin's Athletic Director.
From 1978 until 1985, the head man in Madison was Dave McClain, whose teams went 46-42-3 (.522). After a fatal heart attack in 1986 cut short his career at the age of 48, the Big Ten dedicated it's football Coach of the Year award in his honor.
Barry Alvarez, currently the Athletic Director in Madison, was the head football coach from 1990 through 2005. Prior to that, he was on Hayden Fry's staff at Iowa, and he was the DC on Lou Holtz's 1988 national championship team at Notre Dame. Barry's Badgers won the Rose Bowl in each of the seasons they garnered a Big Ten title: '93, '98, and '99.
1993 was a shared title with tOSU; the teams tied in Madison, and the Badgers claimed their share after they won their last conference game against Michigan State in a game called the Coca-Cola Classic in Tokyo. Barry is the only Big Ten coach to win Rose Bowls in consecutive seasons, and in 2006 a bronze statue of Alvarez was unveiled outside Camp Randall stadium.
The last time tOSU played in Madison was in 2003, so no current Buckeyes have played a game in Camp Randall. That game's two most memorable plays were not shining moments for Ohio State: Robert Reynolds choked Badger QB Jim Sorgi in a pile, knocking him out of the game. With a little over 5 minutes left in a tie game, backup QB Matt Schabert threw a karmic 79-yard TD to Lee Evans, who got Chris Gamble to bite on an out-and-up. That was the last scoring in a 17-10 game that broke tOSU's 19-game winning streak.
Before stepping down as head coach, Barry (already the AD) named Bret Bielema to be his successor. Bielema's first year was an excellent 12-1 campaign, including a Capital One Bowl win over Arkansas. Until last weekend, Bielema had a 19-0 record in games where the Bdgers held a halftrime lead. Blowing the 19-0 lead cost them what likely would have been a #7 ranking this week; instead they are between #16 and #18 depending on which poll you look at.
Buckeye fans hope that another streak for the Badgers under Bielema bites the dust on Saturday - the Badgers are 16-0 at home since he became their head coach.
Date: Saturday, October 4, 2008
Time: 8:00pm EDT
Location: Camp Randall Stadium (Madison, WI)
Constructed: 1917 (Renovated in 2005)
Seating Capacity: 80,321
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events:
Location: Camp Randall Stadium (Madison, WI)
Constructed: 1917 (Renovated in 2005)
Seating Capacity: 80,321
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events:
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC: Mike Patrick (Play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (Analysis), and Holly Rowe (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2008 Wisconsin Badgers Offensive Preview TV Broacast: ABC: Mike Patrick (Play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (Analysis), and Holly Rowe (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
The Buckeyes opened conference play with a convincing home win against a slowly improving Minnesota squad, and now the real meat of the Big Ten schedule begins with their clash against despondent Wisconsin, who snatched a gut-wrenching defeat from the hands of a certain victory last weekend against Michigan. The offense, as outlined below, has put up respectable numbers on the season, but as demonstrated last weekend, they failed to capitalize on turnovers and convert them into touchdowns, they faded badly down the stretch, and the quarterback has a penchant for holding the ball too long. The usually stout offensive line also looked suspect, as they failed to achieve a consistent ground game or protect the QB in the 2nd half. Still, the Badgers will be looking for a quick atonement, and happen to have a game on their schedule that they always circle right in front of them. It will be up to the Buckeyes defense to play tough like the Michigan defense did last week, relying on the offense to then play 2 quality halves.
Wisconsin is ranked 36th nationally in total yards per game (418.5). They have achieved a very nice balance so far, racking up 218.5 rushing yards per game to date (14th nationally), and 195 passing yards per contest, which isn't high in the rankings (79th nationally), but complements the ground game well. They have scored a respectable 31.8 points per game, good for 37th nationally. The Badgers are averaging 21.8 1st downs per game, ranked 37th, but are converting only 39.2% of their 3rd down attempts, which ranks only 68th. So if the Buckeyes can get the Badgers in 3rd and long, they will have a definite advantage in this game. If the Badger ground game is cranking, however, the Buckeyes will be on their heels on a lot of 3rd and 2s. This is a probably game that will primarily be won on 1st down, both directions, and by who can hang on to the ball.
Quarterbacks
QB #4 Allan Evridge (6-2, 212, SR, LaVista HS, Papillon, NE)
Evridge was the starter for much of the 2005 season at Kansas State, where he completed only 48% of his throws and threw more picks (7) than TDs (6), and was sacked 16 times. After transferring and sitting out 2006, he was Tyler Donovan's backup last year, throwing only 12 passes. This season, he has the starting job for his second school, and it has basically been a tale of 2 halves of the schedule thus far. In the first 2 games, Evridge looked excellent. He completed 7/10 with a TD against Akron, and then lit up the Thundering Herd for 308 yards on just 17 completions, also throwing for a score. However, as the quality of opponents has increased, his performance has become shakier. He completed just 50% of his passes for 143 yards and a score in their narrow escape over Fresno State, and then he completed only 54% last weekend and was picked twice by the Wolverines. He is clearly very little threat to run, and he also had numerous occasions where he held onto the ball too long and was indecisive about where he wanted to go with it in the 2nd half last week. He needs his playmakers to do a better job of getting open and he also needs to gel with his offensive line a bit more to move into the upper echelon of quarterbacks in the conference.
Backing up Evridge is junior Dustin Sherer (#18), who has completed both of his throws in 2008.
QB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU QBs
Evridge (P/R): 56/97 (57.7%), 752 yards, 4 TDs, 3 INTs, 130.3 rating; 12/-18, 0 TDs
Pryor (P/R): 29/46 (63.0%), 296 yards, 5 TDs, 1 INT, 148.6 rating; 47/292, 3 TDs
Evridge needs to step up his game as the conference schedule heats up. With the Buckeyes and Lions the next 2 weeks, he can not afford to be complacent in the pocket. "Game Manager" is as cliche as it gets, but since the Badgers function through the ground game, he needs to maximize his limited throws, not turn the ball over, and not put the team in 3rd and long situations with sacks and a lot of incompletions. Pryor has been limited in his throwing, though he has done a very good job with his opportunities, and has he leads the team in rushing, he clearly has an entire extra added dimension that Evridge lacks. Boeckman also gives the Buckeyes an experienced backup/part-time player, while the Badgers have little knowledge of what they have behind Evridge as far as game situations go.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #39 P. J. Hill (5-11, 236, JR, Brooklyn-Poly Prep, East Elmhurst, NY)
FB #44 Chris Pressley (6-1, 259, SR, Woodbury HS, Woodbury, NJ)
Hill is a battering ram of a runner who is the latest in a long line of powerful Wisconsin backs. He gained over 1200 yards and scored 14 times last season, and he is well on his way to another 1000 yard effort this season. Hill may never reach Ron Dayne status, but he does seem destined for his 3rd straight 1000 yard, double digit TD season. He, like his QB, got off to a monster start. He torched Akron for 210 yards and 2 TDs on only 26 carries. Against Marshall, he gained only 57 yards on 18 carries but he did score another pair of TDs. He was solid against Fresno State and Michigan, gaining 112 yards and 70 yards, respectively, and also catching all 3 of his passes last week against the Wolverines. His carry load has been right around 20-25 per game, a reasonable number given his past health issues, but he may have t carry a bigger load in the high magnitude games like this Saturday. This will be quite interesting to watch, because despite his status as a junior, he has yet to attempt a carry against the Buckeye defense.
The Badgers have 2 backups they can turn to. The primary one with the most experience is sophomore Zach Brown (#30). Brown gained 568 yards last season as the backup, and is on a similar pace this season, having gained 174 yards and scoring a pair of TDs in 2008. Not surprisingly, he got quite a bit of work the first couple of games, but he did carry 8 times for 46 yards last week against the Wolverines. He's a solid back with good size (5-11, 207). The Badgers can also turn to freshman John Clay (#32). He's another bruiser (6-2, 237) of the type that the Badgers love to run out there. He had 33 carries and scored 3 TDs in the first 2 games, but has been limited to 3 carries each of the last 2 games. However, he gained 52 yards and scored a TD on those 3 last weekend against Michigan, so watch for him to potentially see the field Saturday as well. Every Badger tailback is a load to bring down, and they can really wear down a stout defense if utilized properly.
Pressley won't carry it much (0 this year, 8 last year) or catch it much (0 this year, 2 last year) but he is big, strong, mean, tough as nails, and one of the best in the business at opening holes for his tailbacks. He is also a captain, demonstrating the tremendous respect he garners from his teammates.
RB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU RBs
Hill: 92/449 yards, 4 TDs, 4.9 YPC; 3 rec/38 yards, 0 TDs, 12.7 YPR
Brown: 34/174 yards, 2 TDs, 5.3 YPC; 1 rec/7 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
Clay: 29/191 yards, 4 TDs, 6.6 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Herron: 58/262 yards, 1 TD, 4.5 YPC; 4 rec/24 yards, 0 TDs, 6.0 YPR
C Wells: 27/217 yards, 1 TD, 8.0 YPC; 3 rec/10 yards, 0 TDs, 3.3 YPR
Saine: 19/65 yards, 1 TD, 3.4 YPC; 2 rec/17 yards, 0 TDs, 8.5 YPR
Both teams have quality players at the top of the board, with Hill and Wells being 2 of the marquee backs in the conference. Depth is also not a concern for either side, as evidenced by the production against Michigan last week for the Badgers and the Buckeyes running player after player out against the Gophers. Herron in particular is the best of the backup lot, and looks like he will be a special player. If the Buckeyes have an advantage, it's being able to change things up...the Badgers run many of the same types of backs out, though it can be devastatingly effective. Wells is averaging a staggering 8 yards a carry, and when he is healthy, there is no back in the conference that is in his class. Give a slight edge to the Buckeyes here, though the Badgers have high quality as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #85 David Gilreath (5-11, 165, SO, Robbinsdale Armstrong HS, New Hope, MN)
WR #7 Kyle Jefferson (6-5, 175, SO, Glenville HS, Cleveland, OH)
The wide receiver position is not especially productive in the Badger offense, as their limited passing game runs through their TEs. Jefferson is the leading returning wideout, and in fact led all wideouts last season, albeit with only 26 catches. Replacing Luke Swan is Gilreath, who caught only 1 pass last year. Both players have been productive with their limited opportunities, however, combining for 20 catches and a TD by Gilreath, last week against Michigan. Gilreath caught 5 passes for 65 yards to go with his score last weekend, and appears to be emerging as a potential threat for the Badgers. He's still young and learning, so when he is a finished product he could be a good one.
Maurice Moore (#3) appears to be a viable 3rd option, though he didn't catch a pass last week. Other backups with limited action include Daven Jones (#13, 0 catches), Isaac Anderson (#6, 3 catches), and yes, freshman Nick Toon, who caught his first pass last weekend. Name sound familiar? It should, as he is not the first Toon to don the Badger uniform at wideout.
WR Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU WRs
Gilreath: 11 catches, 139 yards, 1 TD, 12.6 YPR
Jefferson: 9 catches, 117 yards, 0 TDs, 13.0 YPR
Moore: 5 catches, 61 yards, 0 TDs, 12.2 YPR
Robiskie: 20catches, 203 yards, 4 TDs, 10.2 YPR
Hartline: 10 catches, 169 yards, 2 TDs, 16.9 YPR
Small: 14 catches, 92 yards, 0 TDs, 6.6 YPR
No contest here really, as the Buckeye wideouts have more experience and plenty more big catches. The passing games are designed differently, so this one isn't any real surprise. Keep an eye on Gilreath though, because he could cause some problems if not given proper attention.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
H-B #9 Travis Beckum (6-4, 235, SR, Oak Creek HS, Milwaukee, WI)
TE #89 Garrett Graham (6-4, 237, JR, Memorial HS, Brick, NJ)
This is probably the best and deepest unit in the country, and the passing game runs primarily through the TE position. Beckum is the star with the pub, and can line up all over the field...unfortunately for him, he lined up in the wrong place (twice) in last week's decisive 2 point conversion attempt. Still, despite battling nagging injuries that have limited his playing time, there's no denying his immense talent when he is healthy, as his 75 catches, 982 yards, and 6 TDs last season can attest to. The most underrated player on the team might be Graham, who is one of the better TEs in the country in his own right. He caught 30 passes for 4 TDs last year, and leads the team in catches, yards, and TDs this year despite having missed last week's game. In the 3 games he did play, he caught a TD pass in each, so if he is healthy enough to play this week, he might be the biggest downfield weapon the Badgers have.
A third TE, Lance Kendricks (#84) has 5 catches for 131 yards, including a 29-yarder last week, so they can run yet another player out there who can create havoc in the middle of the field.
TE Rating: A+
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU TEs
Graham: 11 catches, 154 yards, 3 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Beckum: 6 catches, 68 yards, 0 TDs, 11.3 YPR
Nicol: 4 catches, 32 yards, 1 TD, 8.0 YPR
Ballard: 2 catches, 34 yards, 0 TDs, 17.0 YPR
Again, the Badgers use their TEs like most teams utilize their WRs, so this is really no contest. The unit is deep, talented, and clearly can create matchup issues for any defensive coordinator.
Edge: Wisconsin
Offensive Line
LT #68 Gabe Carimi (6-8, 301, SO, Monona Grove HS, Cottage Grove, WI)
LG #75 Andy Kemp (6-6, 315, SR, Menasha HS, Menasha, WI)
C #74 John Moffitt (6-4, 323, SO, West Haven Notre Dame HS, Guilford, CT)
RG #63 Kraig Urbik (6-6, 332, SR, Hudson HS, Hudson, WI)
RT #71 Eric Vandenheuvel (6-7, 324, SR, Hudson HS, Hudson, WI)
This is a mammoth group of lineman who have combined for 124 career starts. The right side is particularly experienced. Urbik, a team captain, is the biggest and best of the bunch, having started 43 straight games for the Badgers, splitting between right guard and right tackle. He is on the Outland Trophy watch list and was 2nd team all-Big Ten last season. Vandenheuvel was injured and lost for the year in the Ohio State game last year, but has made 27 career starts and is a stalwart at right tackle. On the left side, Kemp has started 27 games at the guard spots, so he is also a large blocker with veteran experience. Carimi did an admirable job replacing Joe Thomas by starting all 13 games at LT last season, and has now started 17 straight games at that position. In the middle, Moffitt started 6 games last year, and now has 10 starts total for his career. This is a veteran group who has played quite a bit together and is especially good at run blocking, the bread and butter offense at Wisconsin for a long time. Their pass blocking was somewhat exposed last week, and they will be looking to rectify that situation against the Buckeyes. They'll need to be especially good on 1st down, so that the team can get in a lot of manageable 3rd down situations and move the chains more effectively on 3rd down.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus Ohio State OL
This one is very interesting. On the surface, it could be argued the Badgers might have the advantage, based on their overwhelming size, their considerable experience, and the quality of their running game. However, they did not play well at all last weekend, and the Buckeye defense will be tougher on them than the Wolverines were. On the flip side, the Buckeyes had turned in several lackluster efforts up front, but really got the ground game humming last weekend against the Gophers. It is not at all a stretch to say that the outcome of the game will go directly through these 2 units. Tough call, but based on recent performances, the Buckeyes get a slight edge, though either team seems to have the capacity to be really good or really subpar.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Analysis: Wisconsin offenses have never been all that hard to figure out, they've just been hard to stop for 4 quarters. The size of their line, the power of their backs, and the threat of the vertical passing game in the middle of the field with mismatches at the TE position have led the Badgers to a ton of victories in recent seasons. The Badgers are also returning home, looking for redemption against a high quality opponent after inexplicably letting one slip away to an inferior opponent last week on the road. For Wisconsin to be successful, they'll have to stick with the run and weather the storm of a few punts early, try and hit a couple of big passing plays, get their TEs open over the middle, and grind down the Buckeyes in the 4th quarter if the game is close. They will also have to take better advantage of turnovers if they generate some, because they left more points on the field than they scored last week. The Badgers will need to be at their best this weekend, but the Buckeyes are on the road in a very hostile and volatile environment, so if Wisconsin can get their fans into the game early with a big play or 2, the Buckeyes could be in for a long afternoon. All of that is easier said than done, of course, as last weekend's performance can attest to.
Overall Offensive Grade: B-
2008 Wisconsin Badgers Defensive PreviewQuarterbacks
QB #4 Allan Evridge (6-2, 212, SR, LaVista HS, Papillon, NE)
Evridge was the starter for much of the 2005 season at Kansas State, where he completed only 48% of his throws and threw more picks (7) than TDs (6), and was sacked 16 times. After transferring and sitting out 2006, he was Tyler Donovan's backup last year, throwing only 12 passes. This season, he has the starting job for his second school, and it has basically been a tale of 2 halves of the schedule thus far. In the first 2 games, Evridge looked excellent. He completed 7/10 with a TD against Akron, and then lit up the Thundering Herd for 308 yards on just 17 completions, also throwing for a score. However, as the quality of opponents has increased, his performance has become shakier. He completed just 50% of his passes for 143 yards and a score in their narrow escape over Fresno State, and then he completed only 54% last weekend and was picked twice by the Wolverines. He is clearly very little threat to run, and he also had numerous occasions where he held onto the ball too long and was indecisive about where he wanted to go with it in the 2nd half last week. He needs his playmakers to do a better job of getting open and he also needs to gel with his offensive line a bit more to move into the upper echelon of quarterbacks in the conference.
Backing up Evridge is junior Dustin Sherer (#18), who has completed both of his throws in 2008.
QB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU QBs
Evridge (P/R): 56/97 (57.7%), 752 yards, 4 TDs, 3 INTs, 130.3 rating; 12/-18, 0 TDs
Pryor (P/R): 29/46 (63.0%), 296 yards, 5 TDs, 1 INT, 148.6 rating; 47/292, 3 TDs
Evridge needs to step up his game as the conference schedule heats up. With the Buckeyes and Lions the next 2 weeks, he can not afford to be complacent in the pocket. "Game Manager" is as cliche as it gets, but since the Badgers function through the ground game, he needs to maximize his limited throws, not turn the ball over, and not put the team in 3rd and long situations with sacks and a lot of incompletions. Pryor has been limited in his throwing, though he has done a very good job with his opportunities, and has he leads the team in rushing, he clearly has an entire extra added dimension that Evridge lacks. Boeckman also gives the Buckeyes an experienced backup/part-time player, while the Badgers have little knowledge of what they have behind Evridge as far as game situations go.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #39 P. J. Hill (5-11, 236, JR, Brooklyn-Poly Prep, East Elmhurst, NY)
FB #44 Chris Pressley (6-1, 259, SR, Woodbury HS, Woodbury, NJ)
Hill is a battering ram of a runner who is the latest in a long line of powerful Wisconsin backs. He gained over 1200 yards and scored 14 times last season, and he is well on his way to another 1000 yard effort this season. Hill may never reach Ron Dayne status, but he does seem destined for his 3rd straight 1000 yard, double digit TD season. He, like his QB, got off to a monster start. He torched Akron for 210 yards and 2 TDs on only 26 carries. Against Marshall, he gained only 57 yards on 18 carries but he did score another pair of TDs. He was solid against Fresno State and Michigan, gaining 112 yards and 70 yards, respectively, and also catching all 3 of his passes last week against the Wolverines. His carry load has been right around 20-25 per game, a reasonable number given his past health issues, but he may have t carry a bigger load in the high magnitude games like this Saturday. This will be quite interesting to watch, because despite his status as a junior, he has yet to attempt a carry against the Buckeye defense.
The Badgers have 2 backups they can turn to. The primary one with the most experience is sophomore Zach Brown (#30). Brown gained 568 yards last season as the backup, and is on a similar pace this season, having gained 174 yards and scoring a pair of TDs in 2008. Not surprisingly, he got quite a bit of work the first couple of games, but he did carry 8 times for 46 yards last week against the Wolverines. He's a solid back with good size (5-11, 207). The Badgers can also turn to freshman John Clay (#32). He's another bruiser (6-2, 237) of the type that the Badgers love to run out there. He had 33 carries and scored 3 TDs in the first 2 games, but has been limited to 3 carries each of the last 2 games. However, he gained 52 yards and scored a TD on those 3 last weekend against Michigan, so watch for him to potentially see the field Saturday as well. Every Badger tailback is a load to bring down, and they can really wear down a stout defense if utilized properly.
Pressley won't carry it much (0 this year, 8 last year) or catch it much (0 this year, 2 last year) but he is big, strong, mean, tough as nails, and one of the best in the business at opening holes for his tailbacks. He is also a captain, demonstrating the tremendous respect he garners from his teammates.
RB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU RBs
Hill: 92/449 yards, 4 TDs, 4.9 YPC; 3 rec/38 yards, 0 TDs, 12.7 YPR
Brown: 34/174 yards, 2 TDs, 5.3 YPC; 1 rec/7 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
Clay: 29/191 yards, 4 TDs, 6.6 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Herron: 58/262 yards, 1 TD, 4.5 YPC; 4 rec/24 yards, 0 TDs, 6.0 YPR
C Wells: 27/217 yards, 1 TD, 8.0 YPC; 3 rec/10 yards, 0 TDs, 3.3 YPR
Saine: 19/65 yards, 1 TD, 3.4 YPC; 2 rec/17 yards, 0 TDs, 8.5 YPR
Both teams have quality players at the top of the board, with Hill and Wells being 2 of the marquee backs in the conference. Depth is also not a concern for either side, as evidenced by the production against Michigan last week for the Badgers and the Buckeyes running player after player out against the Gophers. Herron in particular is the best of the backup lot, and looks like he will be a special player. If the Buckeyes have an advantage, it's being able to change things up...the Badgers run many of the same types of backs out, though it can be devastatingly effective. Wells is averaging a staggering 8 yards a carry, and when he is healthy, there is no back in the conference that is in his class. Give a slight edge to the Buckeyes here, though the Badgers have high quality as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #85 David Gilreath (5-11, 165, SO, Robbinsdale Armstrong HS, New Hope, MN)
WR #7 Kyle Jefferson (6-5, 175, SO, Glenville HS, Cleveland, OH)
The wide receiver position is not especially productive in the Badger offense, as their limited passing game runs through their TEs. Jefferson is the leading returning wideout, and in fact led all wideouts last season, albeit with only 26 catches. Replacing Luke Swan is Gilreath, who caught only 1 pass last year. Both players have been productive with their limited opportunities, however, combining for 20 catches and a TD by Gilreath, last week against Michigan. Gilreath caught 5 passes for 65 yards to go with his score last weekend, and appears to be emerging as a potential threat for the Badgers. He's still young and learning, so when he is a finished product he could be a good one.
Maurice Moore (#3) appears to be a viable 3rd option, though he didn't catch a pass last week. Other backups with limited action include Daven Jones (#13, 0 catches), Isaac Anderson (#6, 3 catches), and yes, freshman Nick Toon, who caught his first pass last weekend. Name sound familiar? It should, as he is not the first Toon to don the Badger uniform at wideout.
WR Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU WRs
Gilreath: 11 catches, 139 yards, 1 TD, 12.6 YPR
Jefferson: 9 catches, 117 yards, 0 TDs, 13.0 YPR
Moore: 5 catches, 61 yards, 0 TDs, 12.2 YPR
Robiskie: 20catches, 203 yards, 4 TDs, 10.2 YPR
Hartline: 10 catches, 169 yards, 2 TDs, 16.9 YPR
Small: 14 catches, 92 yards, 0 TDs, 6.6 YPR
No contest here really, as the Buckeye wideouts have more experience and plenty more big catches. The passing games are designed differently, so this one isn't any real surprise. Keep an eye on Gilreath though, because he could cause some problems if not given proper attention.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
H-B #9 Travis Beckum (6-4, 235, SR, Oak Creek HS, Milwaukee, WI)
TE #89 Garrett Graham (6-4, 237, JR, Memorial HS, Brick, NJ)
This is probably the best and deepest unit in the country, and the passing game runs primarily through the TE position. Beckum is the star with the pub, and can line up all over the field...unfortunately for him, he lined up in the wrong place (twice) in last week's decisive 2 point conversion attempt. Still, despite battling nagging injuries that have limited his playing time, there's no denying his immense talent when he is healthy, as his 75 catches, 982 yards, and 6 TDs last season can attest to. The most underrated player on the team might be Graham, who is one of the better TEs in the country in his own right. He caught 30 passes for 4 TDs last year, and leads the team in catches, yards, and TDs this year despite having missed last week's game. In the 3 games he did play, he caught a TD pass in each, so if he is healthy enough to play this week, he might be the biggest downfield weapon the Badgers have.
A third TE, Lance Kendricks (#84) has 5 catches for 131 yards, including a 29-yarder last week, so they can run yet another player out there who can create havoc in the middle of the field.
TE Rating: A+
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU TEs
Graham: 11 catches, 154 yards, 3 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Beckum: 6 catches, 68 yards, 0 TDs, 11.3 YPR
Nicol: 4 catches, 32 yards, 1 TD, 8.0 YPR
Ballard: 2 catches, 34 yards, 0 TDs, 17.0 YPR
Again, the Badgers use their TEs like most teams utilize their WRs, so this is really no contest. The unit is deep, talented, and clearly can create matchup issues for any defensive coordinator.
Edge: Wisconsin
Offensive Line
LT #68 Gabe Carimi (6-8, 301, SO, Monona Grove HS, Cottage Grove, WI)
LG #75 Andy Kemp (6-6, 315, SR, Menasha HS, Menasha, WI)
C #74 John Moffitt (6-4, 323, SO, West Haven Notre Dame HS, Guilford, CT)
RG #63 Kraig Urbik (6-6, 332, SR, Hudson HS, Hudson, WI)
RT #71 Eric Vandenheuvel (6-7, 324, SR, Hudson HS, Hudson, WI)
This is a mammoth group of lineman who have combined for 124 career starts. The right side is particularly experienced. Urbik, a team captain, is the biggest and best of the bunch, having started 43 straight games for the Badgers, splitting between right guard and right tackle. He is on the Outland Trophy watch list and was 2nd team all-Big Ten last season. Vandenheuvel was injured and lost for the year in the Ohio State game last year, but has made 27 career starts and is a stalwart at right tackle. On the left side, Kemp has started 27 games at the guard spots, so he is also a large blocker with veteran experience. Carimi did an admirable job replacing Joe Thomas by starting all 13 games at LT last season, and has now started 17 straight games at that position. In the middle, Moffitt started 6 games last year, and now has 10 starts total for his career. This is a veteran group who has played quite a bit together and is especially good at run blocking, the bread and butter offense at Wisconsin for a long time. Their pass blocking was somewhat exposed last week, and they will be looking to rectify that situation against the Buckeyes. They'll need to be especially good on 1st down, so that the team can get in a lot of manageable 3rd down situations and move the chains more effectively on 3rd down.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus Ohio State OL
This one is very interesting. On the surface, it could be argued the Badgers might have the advantage, based on their overwhelming size, their considerable experience, and the quality of their running game. However, they did not play well at all last weekend, and the Buckeye defense will be tougher on them than the Wolverines were. On the flip side, the Buckeyes had turned in several lackluster efforts up front, but really got the ground game humming last weekend against the Gophers. It is not at all a stretch to say that the outcome of the game will go directly through these 2 units. Tough call, but based on recent performances, the Buckeyes get a slight edge, though either team seems to have the capacity to be really good or really subpar.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Analysis: Wisconsin offenses have never been all that hard to figure out, they've just been hard to stop for 4 quarters. The size of their line, the power of their backs, and the threat of the vertical passing game in the middle of the field with mismatches at the TE position have led the Badgers to a ton of victories in recent seasons. The Badgers are also returning home, looking for redemption against a high quality opponent after inexplicably letting one slip away to an inferior opponent last week on the road. For Wisconsin to be successful, they'll have to stick with the run and weather the storm of a few punts early, try and hit a couple of big passing plays, get their TEs open over the middle, and grind down the Buckeyes in the 4th quarter if the game is close. They will also have to take better advantage of turnovers if they generate some, because they left more points on the field than they scored last week. The Badgers will need to be at their best this weekend, but the Buckeyes are on the road in a very hostile and volatile environment, so if Wisconsin can get their fans into the game early with a big play or 2, the Buckeyes could be in for a long afternoon. All of that is easier said than done, of course, as last weekend's performance can attest to.
Overall Offensive Grade: B-
Returning Starters: 9
Making first year Defensive Coordinator Dave Doeren's job easier is that Wisconsin returns nearly every starter off of a decent 2007 defense which gave up 23.3 points a game and just over 350 yards. Of those yards, almost 211 came through the air, while the run defense finished 139.8.
Running the familiar 4-3, Wisconsin finds improvement in rush defense thus far, giving up 108.8 yards with 4TDs and 21 first downs, good for 3rd in the Big Ten, just in front of Ohio State. The talented secondary has also been an improvement at this point in the season allowing a Big Ten 2nd best 196.8 yards in the air (Ohio State leads at 156.6) while affording just 4 TDs against 6 INTs. Teams have gained 1st downs by air 41 times. Wisconsin, has held teams to just 17 points a game and looked like it was going to blank Michigan last Saturday. After giving up just 20 total yards to the Wolverines at the half, Michigan solved some problems in route to 268 yards (172 on the ground) and a 27-25 comeback win.
Wisconsin cannot afford a week like the second half of the Michigan game. While Steven Threet was able to rush for 89 yards, the Buckeyes boast a "true" mobile QB in Terrelle Pryor who could give the Badgers serious fits. The secondary will make Pryor's throwing more difficult, but with Chris Wells back in the fold (and with Pryor's running ability), the Badgers will have to respect the run which could open things up a little for the Freshman.
Defensive Line
LE #50 O'Brien Schofield (6-3, 232, JR)
LT #91 Jason Chapman (6-4, 285, SR)
RT #54 Mike Newkirk (6-3, 264, SR)
RE #92 Matt Shaughnessy (6-6, 253, SR)
Shaughnessy has been very good when healthy (Torn ACL at the end of 2005, broken leg during spring ball), able to get in to the backfield to make the play. Fourth on the team in Tackles in 2007, Shaughnessy has 11 thus far in 2008, though none have come behind the line he has also recoded 5 QB hurries. On the other end is the speedy Schofield. While recording just 8 tackles in 2007, he was the starter for Wisconsin's Outback Bowl loss at Right End. He has played well thus far in 2008 recording 12 Tackles and leads the team with 2 sacks, with an additional half tackle coming for loss. Inside, Wisconsin returns two Seniors. Chapman has next level ability but suffered a season ending ACL tear against Ohio State last season. While not the biggest of interior linemen, he's strong against the run and can get to the QB. He has 12 Tackles with 3 for loss and a sack. The undersized (especially for Wisconsin) Newkirk is reliant on his non-stop motor and desire to make the play. He's used this aggressiveness to lead all Wisconsin linemen in Tackles with 16, 4.5 of which have been for loss and one sack.
Depth will come from Ends; #45 Daniel Moore (6-2, 280, JR), #97 Brendan Kelly (6-6, 230, FR), and #93 93 Louis Nzegwu (6-3, 228, FR), and Tackles, #95 Patrick Butrym (6-4, 264, rFR) and #79 Jeff Stehle (6-6, 290, JR). Each has played in all of Wisconsin's games this year, with Moore leading the way with 8 Tackles, one for loss. A JUCO transfer, Moore is a decent pass rushing option though needs to shore up against the run. Stehle has 5 Tackles, 1 for loss, while Kelly and Nzwqwu also have 5 Tackles but none for loss. Butrym has made two stops.
DL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU DL
Wisconsin's D line is very solid when healthy as it is in week 5. With excellent leadership and experience returning, the Badgers have a good foundation to base the remainder of their defense. While the line is generally undersized, it is quick. The quickness has not yet translated in to gaudy behind the line of scrimmage numbers, but the potential is ever present. Each of the 4 starters is among the team's top 10 leading tacklers evidencing great ball awareness. Like Ohio State, however, it can be pushed around by bigger O Lines. While Ohio State has shaken up it's rotation trying to get more beef inside by moving Cameron Heyward inside, at this point the lines appear to be even, though the Buckeyes are slightly better against the run at this point.
Edge: Even
Linebackers
OLB #11 DeAndre Levy (6-3, 228, SR)
MLB #47 Jaevery McFadden (6-3, 220, Jr)
WLB #2 Jonathan Casillas (6-2, 226, SR)
The Wisconsin backers are the strength of the Defense with each of last year's starters returning in 2008. The unit is lead by Casillas who lead the Badgers with 96 stops in 2007. A speedy guy who may end up at Safety in the NFL, Casillas is not afraid to bring the wood. He has 15 Tackles, half for loss, and a 49 yard INT thus far. McFadden did not start in 2007, but has proven to be too good to keep off the field. Excellent on special teams, McFadden has a nose for the football and making plays. He leads the Badgers in 2008 with 36 Tackles, 2.5 for loss. Levy retuns to the strongside where he was second on the team in Tackles in 2007. Levy has good over-all ability and is able to defend the pass and run equally well. He finds himself 2nd on the team in tackles again in 2008 with 23, but leads the team in TFLs with 5. He has one of Wiconsin's 5 sacks.
LB depth comes from # 27 Blake Sorensen (6-1, 217, SO), #42 Erik Prather (6-3, 212, JR), #52 Elijah Hodge (6-1, 227, JR), and #15 Culmer St. Jean (6-1, 228, SO). Hodge is one of those guys who you think "Hasn't he been there since 1980?" A starter last season, he brings toughness for his size but needs to force the issue more if he's to be confused with his brother, former Iowa LB Abdul. He has 4 tackles, 1 for loss, in 3 games. Sorenson has 7 tackles with one for loss, while Prather has 5 and 1. St. Jean has 2 tackles while seeing action in every game.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU LBs
Ohio State entered 2008 projected to be one of the top two LB corps in the nation. While the Buckeyes unit has been far less flashy than fans expected, the fact remains that each of Laurinaitis, Freeman, and Homan are making plays all over the field. The top 3 tacklers on the team, they also have 3 sacks and a pick (Laurinaitis). Wisconsin's unit is very good too, but not quite at Ohio State's level. McFadden and company are smaller than the Buckeyes and this size does not translate in to any noticeable gains in getting to the QB or in coverage. Perhaps a function of Wisconsin's more active D-Line, the Buckeyes LBs make more stops and have a slight over-all talent edge both in the starting positions as well as on the bench, though Hodge could start at a lot of schools in the Big Ten.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #17 Allen Langford (5-11, 189, SR)
FS #25 Shane Carter (6-2, 202, JR)
SS #12 Jay Valai (5-9, 197, SO)
LCB #23 Mario Goins (6-1, 186, rFR)
Gone is Jack Ikegwuonu, but returned is Langford. Like Chapman, Langford's 2007 was cut short with an ACL tear against Ohio State. He is a good tackler and though smallish at 5-11 he can man up most WRs he'll face. The team's option as shut down corner in 2008 with Ikegwunonu gone, he's made 14 tackles thus far with no picks, but with a fumble recovery. Goins gets the nod on the other side. At 6-1, Goins is able to match up with taller wideouts, and has the speed to keep up with just about anyone. The youngest of the starters, he's performed ably thus far recording 12 tackles. The 5'9" Valai came to Wisconsin as a corner, but proved to be a tough hitter for his size. He matches up well when the ball is in the air, but could have trouble against physical TEs. He has 13 tackles in '08, one for loss. Carter is a fantastic hitter who always seems to be around the football. An honorable mention All Big Ten performer in 2007, Carter has become a vocal leader for the group. While he has just 11 stops in 2008, he is tied for the team lead with 2 picks.
Depth is provided from DBs; #7 Aaron Henry (6-0, 191, SO), #26 Antonio Fenelus (5-10, 175, FR), and 29 Niles Brinkley (5-10, 177, SO), and Safeties, #8 Aubrey Pleasant (6-1, 198, JR) and # 21 Chris Maragos (6-0, 189, JR). Each of Brinkley, Maragos and Pleasant have seen action in all of the Badgers games, while Fenelus has played in 3. Brinkley has 10 tackles and is tied with Carter for team lead with 2 INTs. Maragos has 7 tackles, and Fenelus 5, while Pleasant has 4. Henry is recovering from a torn ACL suffered in the Outback bowl. When healthy, he is a talented DB who can become a force in the Big Ten, but he has yet to record any numbers in 2008.
DB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU DBs
Wisconsin's secondary, despite it's athleticism, makes far too many game changing plays. In 2007 the entire team had just 12 picks, with 7 of them being Carter's. This problem seem to continue in 2008 with Carter having 2 INTs and a reserve (Brinkley) having the only other two from the group. The Buckeyes have improved at making the INT this year, as teams avoid Malcom Jenkins as much as possible whereas Wisconsin lacks a true "shut down" man at this time. While Carter is a serious force the Badgers would suffer dramatically if he were to go down to injury. The Badgers have some depth, but the Buckeyes win the battle on the bench as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Badgers are a good, but not great, defense which is showing some improvement over last season's good but not great group. The Badgers are not flashy, making few game changing plays, but generally keeping teams out of the endzone. With a Freshman QB going against them, it is possible that the DBs will look to make some plays, and Carter has to be salivating. But, with that comes the risk that Pryor will run all over them. With Beanie Wells back healthy, teams must respect the running game again which will open up possibilities against the Badgers. The defense is built on speed, not size, and you should look for the big fella to rumble quite a bit next Saturday. Of course, that being the case, Tressel may have Pryor throw straight in to the teeth of the defense if he senses them overcompensating.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
2008 Wisconsin Badgers Special Teams PreviewWisconsin cannot afford a week like the second half of the Michigan game. While Steven Threet was able to rush for 89 yards, the Buckeyes boast a "true" mobile QB in Terrelle Pryor who could give the Badgers serious fits. The secondary will make Pryor's throwing more difficult, but with Chris Wells back in the fold (and with Pryor's running ability), the Badgers will have to respect the run which could open things up a little for the Freshman.
Defensive Line
LE #50 O'Brien Schofield (6-3, 232, JR)
LT #91 Jason Chapman (6-4, 285, SR)
RT #54 Mike Newkirk (6-3, 264, SR)
RE #92 Matt Shaughnessy (6-6, 253, SR)
Shaughnessy has been very good when healthy (Torn ACL at the end of 2005, broken leg during spring ball), able to get in to the backfield to make the play. Fourth on the team in Tackles in 2007, Shaughnessy has 11 thus far in 2008, though none have come behind the line he has also recoded 5 QB hurries. On the other end is the speedy Schofield. While recording just 8 tackles in 2007, he was the starter for Wisconsin's Outback Bowl loss at Right End. He has played well thus far in 2008 recording 12 Tackles and leads the team with 2 sacks, with an additional half tackle coming for loss. Inside, Wisconsin returns two Seniors. Chapman has next level ability but suffered a season ending ACL tear against Ohio State last season. While not the biggest of interior linemen, he's strong against the run and can get to the QB. He has 12 Tackles with 3 for loss and a sack. The undersized (especially for Wisconsin) Newkirk is reliant on his non-stop motor and desire to make the play. He's used this aggressiveness to lead all Wisconsin linemen in Tackles with 16, 4.5 of which have been for loss and one sack.
Depth will come from Ends; #45 Daniel Moore (6-2, 280, JR), #97 Brendan Kelly (6-6, 230, FR), and #93 93 Louis Nzegwu (6-3, 228, FR), and Tackles, #95 Patrick Butrym (6-4, 264, rFR) and #79 Jeff Stehle (6-6, 290, JR). Each has played in all of Wisconsin's games this year, with Moore leading the way with 8 Tackles, one for loss. A JUCO transfer, Moore is a decent pass rushing option though needs to shore up against the run. Stehle has 5 Tackles, 1 for loss, while Kelly and Nzwqwu also have 5 Tackles but none for loss. Butrym has made two stops.
DL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU DL
Wisconsin's D line is very solid when healthy as it is in week 5. With excellent leadership and experience returning, the Badgers have a good foundation to base the remainder of their defense. While the line is generally undersized, it is quick. The quickness has not yet translated in to gaudy behind the line of scrimmage numbers, but the potential is ever present. Each of the 4 starters is among the team's top 10 leading tacklers evidencing great ball awareness. Like Ohio State, however, it can be pushed around by bigger O Lines. While Ohio State has shaken up it's rotation trying to get more beef inside by moving Cameron Heyward inside, at this point the lines appear to be even, though the Buckeyes are slightly better against the run at this point.
Edge: Even
Linebackers
OLB #11 DeAndre Levy (6-3, 228, SR)
MLB #47 Jaevery McFadden (6-3, 220, Jr)
WLB #2 Jonathan Casillas (6-2, 226, SR)
The Wisconsin backers are the strength of the Defense with each of last year's starters returning in 2008. The unit is lead by Casillas who lead the Badgers with 96 stops in 2007. A speedy guy who may end up at Safety in the NFL, Casillas is not afraid to bring the wood. He has 15 Tackles, half for loss, and a 49 yard INT thus far. McFadden did not start in 2007, but has proven to be too good to keep off the field. Excellent on special teams, McFadden has a nose for the football and making plays. He leads the Badgers in 2008 with 36 Tackles, 2.5 for loss. Levy retuns to the strongside where he was second on the team in Tackles in 2007. Levy has good over-all ability and is able to defend the pass and run equally well. He finds himself 2nd on the team in tackles again in 2008 with 23, but leads the team in TFLs with 5. He has one of Wiconsin's 5 sacks.
LB depth comes from # 27 Blake Sorensen (6-1, 217, SO), #42 Erik Prather (6-3, 212, JR), #52 Elijah Hodge (6-1, 227, JR), and #15 Culmer St. Jean (6-1, 228, SO). Hodge is one of those guys who you think "Hasn't he been there since 1980?" A starter last season, he brings toughness for his size but needs to force the issue more if he's to be confused with his brother, former Iowa LB Abdul. He has 4 tackles, 1 for loss, in 3 games. Sorenson has 7 tackles with one for loss, while Prather has 5 and 1. St. Jean has 2 tackles while seeing action in every game.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU LBs
Ohio State entered 2008 projected to be one of the top two LB corps in the nation. While the Buckeyes unit has been far less flashy than fans expected, the fact remains that each of Laurinaitis, Freeman, and Homan are making plays all over the field. The top 3 tacklers on the team, they also have 3 sacks and a pick (Laurinaitis). Wisconsin's unit is very good too, but not quite at Ohio State's level. McFadden and company are smaller than the Buckeyes and this size does not translate in to any noticeable gains in getting to the QB or in coverage. Perhaps a function of Wisconsin's more active D-Line, the Buckeyes LBs make more stops and have a slight over-all talent edge both in the starting positions as well as on the bench, though Hodge could start at a lot of schools in the Big Ten.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #17 Allen Langford (5-11, 189, SR)
FS #25 Shane Carter (6-2, 202, JR)
SS #12 Jay Valai (5-9, 197, SO)
LCB #23 Mario Goins (6-1, 186, rFR)
Gone is Jack Ikegwuonu, but returned is Langford. Like Chapman, Langford's 2007 was cut short with an ACL tear against Ohio State. He is a good tackler and though smallish at 5-11 he can man up most WRs he'll face. The team's option as shut down corner in 2008 with Ikegwunonu gone, he's made 14 tackles thus far with no picks, but with a fumble recovery. Goins gets the nod on the other side. At 6-1, Goins is able to match up with taller wideouts, and has the speed to keep up with just about anyone. The youngest of the starters, he's performed ably thus far recording 12 tackles. The 5'9" Valai came to Wisconsin as a corner, but proved to be a tough hitter for his size. He matches up well when the ball is in the air, but could have trouble against physical TEs. He has 13 tackles in '08, one for loss. Carter is a fantastic hitter who always seems to be around the football. An honorable mention All Big Ten performer in 2007, Carter has become a vocal leader for the group. While he has just 11 stops in 2008, he is tied for the team lead with 2 picks.
Depth is provided from DBs; #7 Aaron Henry (6-0, 191, SO), #26 Antonio Fenelus (5-10, 175, FR), and 29 Niles Brinkley (5-10, 177, SO), and Safeties, #8 Aubrey Pleasant (6-1, 198, JR) and # 21 Chris Maragos (6-0, 189, JR). Each of Brinkley, Maragos and Pleasant have seen action in all of the Badgers games, while Fenelus has played in 3. Brinkley has 10 tackles and is tied with Carter for team lead with 2 INTs. Maragos has 7 tackles, and Fenelus 5, while Pleasant has 4. Henry is recovering from a torn ACL suffered in the Outback bowl. When healthy, he is a talented DB who can become a force in the Big Ten, but he has yet to record any numbers in 2008.
DB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Wisconsin versus OSU DBs
Wisconsin's secondary, despite it's athleticism, makes far too many game changing plays. In 2007 the entire team had just 12 picks, with 7 of them being Carter's. This problem seem to continue in 2008 with Carter having 2 INTs and a reserve (Brinkley) having the only other two from the group. The Buckeyes have improved at making the INT this year, as teams avoid Malcom Jenkins as much as possible whereas Wisconsin lacks a true "shut down" man at this time. While Carter is a serious force the Badgers would suffer dramatically if he were to go down to injury. The Badgers have some depth, but the Buckeyes win the battle on the bench as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Badgers are a good, but not great, defense which is showing some improvement over last season's good but not great group. The Badgers are not flashy, making few game changing plays, but generally keeping teams out of the endzone. With a Freshman QB going against them, it is possible that the DBs will look to make some plays, and Carter has to be salivating. But, with that comes the risk that Pryor will run all over them. With Beanie Wells back healthy, teams must respect the running game again which will open up possibilities against the Badgers. The defense is built on speed, not size, and you should look for the big fella to rumble quite a bit next Saturday. Of course, that being the case, Tressel may have Pryor throw straight in to the teeth of the defense if he senses them overcompensating.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
Returning Starters: 2 (PR/KR Gilreath and Long Snapper Peck)
2007 stats:
Punter: Kenneth DeBauche (graduated) 41.59/avg
Kicker: Taylor Mehlhaff (graduated) 21/25 fgs (84%)
Punt returns: 12 yds/avg 24th in the Nation
Kickoff Returns: 19.73/avg 90th in the Nation
Punt defense: 6.58/avg 27th in the Nation
Kickoff defense: 19.64/avg 23rd in the Nation
2008 stats:
Punter: Nortman 42.27/avg 29th in the nation
Kicker: Phillip Welch Fr, 10 of 8 fgs (80%), 13 of 14 PATs
Punt returns: 5 returns for 33 yds (6.6 avg) 89th in the Nation
PR: David Gilreath - all the returns
Kickoff Returns: 13 for 320 yds (24.62 avg) 25th in the nation
KR: Gilreath 9 for 283 yds (31.4 avg) Long of 63
Bill Rentmeester 2 for 21 yds (10.5 avg) long of 19
Bradie Ewing 1 for 4 (4 avg) long of 4
Tyler Holland 1 for 12
Punt defense: 5 for 17 yds (3.4 avg) 12th in the nation
Kickoff defense: 25 for 493 yds (19.72 avg) 43rd in the nation
Special Teams
P #98 Brad Nortman (6-3, 215, Fr., Brookfield, WI)
K #18 Phillip Welch (6-3, 190, Fr., Fort Collins, CO)
PR/KR #85 David Gilreath (5-11, 165, So., New Hope, MN)
LS #81 Dave Peck (6-5, 246, Sr., Media, PA)
The Badgers are somewhat inexperienced in the Special Teams dept as both the Punter and Kicker are Freshmen and the Kickoff/Punt returner is a sophmore.
Head-to-Head: Gilreath versus OSU STs / OSU returners vs Wisconsin STs
Gilreath has decent speed and has done fairly well on the kickoff and punt return teams. He is 25th in the Nation in kickoff returns (13 for 320 yds, a 24.62 avg. Punt returns are another issue for the Wisconsin as Gilreath has made all 5 returns for 33 yds (6.6 avg) good for only 89th in the Nation OSU has done pretty well defending kickoffs and punts. No advantage to either team. The OSU kickoff return team continues to struggle, ranking 108th in the country in average return. Advantage Badgers. The punt return team has done better, but so had the Wisconsin punt return defense team, edge even.
Edge: Even
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Punter Nortman has done a very good job so far with the Badgers, averaging over 42 yds per punt. Kicker Welch has hit on 10 of 8 fgs (80%) and 13 of 14 PATs. The return teams and defenses for Wisconsin are solid, if unspectacular. They have not scored nor given up a score yet this year on Special Teams. As in the past few weeks, the Special Teams may determine the outcome of the game. Ohio State is going into a very loud and intimidating stadium that will be in full voice for the Badgers. Winning the battle of field position will be critical.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B
PredictionsPunter: Nortman 42.27/avg 29th in the nation
Kicker: Phillip Welch Fr, 10 of 8 fgs (80%), 13 of 14 PATs
Punt returns: 5 returns for 33 yds (6.6 avg) 89th in the Nation
PR: David Gilreath - all the returns
Kickoff Returns: 13 for 320 yds (24.62 avg) 25th in the nation
KR: Gilreath 9 for 283 yds (31.4 avg) Long of 63
Bill Rentmeester 2 for 21 yds (10.5 avg) long of 19
Bradie Ewing 1 for 4 (4 avg) long of 4
Tyler Holland 1 for 12
Punt defense: 5 for 17 yds (3.4 avg) 12th in the nation
Kickoff defense: 25 for 493 yds (19.72 avg) 43rd in the nation
Special Teams
P #98 Brad Nortman (6-3, 215, Fr., Brookfield, WI)
K #18 Phillip Welch (6-3, 190, Fr., Fort Collins, CO)
PR/KR #85 David Gilreath (5-11, 165, So., New Hope, MN)
LS #81 Dave Peck (6-5, 246, Sr., Media, PA)
The Badgers are somewhat inexperienced in the Special Teams dept as both the Punter and Kicker are Freshmen and the Kickoff/Punt returner is a sophmore.
Head-to-Head: Gilreath versus OSU STs / OSU returners vs Wisconsin STs
Gilreath has decent speed and has done fairly well on the kickoff and punt return teams. He is 25th in the Nation in kickoff returns (13 for 320 yds, a 24.62 avg. Punt returns are another issue for the Wisconsin as Gilreath has made all 5 returns for 33 yds (6.6 avg) good for only 89th in the Nation OSU has done pretty well defending kickoffs and punts. No advantage to either team. The OSU kickoff return team continues to struggle, ranking 108th in the country in average return. Advantage Badgers. The punt return team has done better, but so had the Wisconsin punt return defense team, edge even.
Edge: Even
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Punter Nortman has done a very good job so far with the Badgers, averaging over 42 yds per punt. Kicker Welch has hit on 10 of 8 fgs (80%) and 13 of 14 PATs. The return teams and defenses for Wisconsin are solid, if unspectacular. They have not scored nor given up a score yet this year on Special Teams. As in the past few weeks, the Special Teams may determine the outcome of the game. Ohio State is going into a very loud and intimidating stadium that will be in full voice for the Badgers. Winning the battle of field position will be critical.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B
BB73's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 24-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 27-16, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-17, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 27-17, Ohio State
JCOSU's Prediction: 21-14, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Last edited:
EvansvilleBuckeye