The Badgers from Wisconsin lose against Oregon! Who on the Football Team Needs to Be a Star?

The Wisconsin Badgers, known for their strong football program, suffered a disappointing defeat at the hands of the Oregon Ducks. This loss has raised questions about the team’s ability to contend at a high level, both within the Big Ten and on the national stage. While every defeat comes with its own set of challenges and lessons, one key factor in bouncing back from a tough loss is identifying which players need to step up and become stars for the team. In this piece, we’ll break down which players on the Wisconsin football team need to rise to the occasion to help restore the Badgers to their winning ways.

After the loss to Oregon, the Badgers must focus on the future, learning from the mistakes made on the field, and turning that knowledge into fuel for the rest of the season. With the right individuals stepping into leadership roles and asserting themselves as game-changers, Wisconsin can get back on track. But who exactly needs to step up?

1. Braylon Allen – Running Back Needing to Lead the Charge

The backbone of Wisconsin’s offense has traditionally been its running game, and that responsibility largely falls on Braylon Allen. As one of the top running backs in the country, Allen has shown time and again that he has the potential to take over games. However, in the loss to Oregon, Allen struggled to get into a rhythm. The Oregon defense was able to stifle the Wisconsin running game, which made it difficult for the Badgers to establish any form of offensive consistency.

For Wisconsin to bounce back and compete for championships, Allen needs to be the star player in the backfield. His combination of speed, vision, and strength makes him one of the most dangerous running backs in the nation, but he needs to find ways to break through defensive lines, keep the chains moving, and wear down opposing defenses.

Against Oregon, the offensive line didn’t create the running lanes that Allen is used to, and that had an adverse effect on his performance. However, Allen’s ability to adjust, fight through tough situations, and regain his confidence will be pivotal. In order for the Badgers to find success this season, Allen must be the focal point of the offense, dominating in the run game and potentially providing a safety valve in the passing game. His leadership on the field, especially when the game plan goes awry, will be critical for the team’s success.

2. Tanner Mordecai – Quarterback Who Needs to Deliver Consistency

One of the most important positions on any team is quarterback, and for the Badgers, Tanner Mordecai’s performance will be a key factor moving forward. After transferring from SMU, Mordecai was expected to be the leader who could stabilize the passing game, which has been inconsistent in recent years for Wisconsin. However, in the loss to Oregon, Mordecai struggled with accuracy and timing, especially on third downs and in critical moments.

Mordecai has the arm strength and experience to succeed, but what the Badgers need from him is consistency and decision-making under pressure. He needs to deliver the ball on time to his receivers, manage the game effectively, and keep the offense moving down the field. In short, Wisconsin needs Mordecai to be a true leader at the quarterback position, capable of executing a balanced offensive attack that features both the run game and the pass game.

For Wisconsin to be successful against tougher opponents in the Big Ten and beyond, Mordecai will need to step up and play at a higher level. If the Badgers’ passing attack is to become a legitimate threat, Mordecai must continue to build chemistry with his receivers, show poise in the pocket, and take advantage of opportunities to move the ball downfield. Wisconsin cannot continue to rely solely on the running game if they wish to compete at the highest level, and that means Mordecai must be the catalyst for the offense.

3. Offensive Line – The Heart of Wisconsin Football

Historically, Wisconsin has been known for its dominant offensive line, a group that prides itself on creating space for running backs and providing solid protection for the quarterback. However, in the loss to Oregon, the Badgers’ offensive line was underwhelming. Oregon’s defense was able to put pressure on Mordecai and stifle Allen’s runs, leaving the Badgers offense without a true identity.

The offensive line needs to take responsibility for this setback. As the foundation of the offense, they need to control the line of scrimmage and dictate the pace of the game. With experienced veterans like Jack Nelson, Tyler Beach, and Joe Tippmann on the roster, this group has the talent to dominate. However, they will need to show more consistency, drive, and mental toughness moving forward.

For Wisconsin to get back on track, the offensive line must regain its form and deliver on its potential. They need to open up holes for Braylon Allen to exploit and provide Tanner Mordecai with a clean pocket to survey the field. The offensive line is critical to the success of Wisconsin’s offense, and if they can return to their physical, dominant ways, it will take a lot of pressure off the skill players and allow the offense to find success.

4. Nick Herbig – Linebacker Who Needs to Lead the Defense

On defense, the Badgers have long been known for their tough, hard-hitting linebackers, and Nick Herbig was expected to be the leader of this unit. However, in the loss to Oregon, Wisconsin’s defense appeared to struggle at times with tackling, coverage, and overall team defense. Herbig, who has been a standout player for Wisconsin, needs to step up and lead by example.

Herbig’s ability to disrupt the quarterback, make tackles in the open field, and read offensive plays will be critical for Wisconsin’s defense moving forward. His leadership in the linebacker corps will help the Badgers re-establish their defensive identity. With the Badgers’ defense underperforming against Oregon, it is up to Herbig to ensure that the defense plays with more intensity and discipline.

In a league like the Big Ten, where teams are known for their physical play and strong ground games, Herbig’s role will be pivotal. Whether it’s providing pressure on the quarterback or shutting down the run, Herbig’s ability to make plays and lead his unit will be crucial for Wisconsin’s success going forward.

5. Jay Shaw – Cornerback Who Needs to Lock Down Opponents

While Wisconsin’s defense has been strong in the past, the secondary has occasionally been a weak link. Against Oregon, the defensive backs struggled in pass coverage, giving up big plays that shifted the momentum of the game. If Wisconsin is to succeed this season, Jay Shaw, a cornerback who has shown potential, must rise to the occasion and become a lockdown defender.

Shaw has the ability to cover top-tier wide receivers and make plays in critical situations, but he needs to be more consistent with his technique and positioning. With the Badgers facing high-powered offenses in the Big Ten, Shaw’s ability to cover wide receivers and prevent big plays will be vital. He must take responsibility for the mistakes made against Oregon and work to be a more reliable presence in the secondary.

A strong cornerback is essential to Wisconsin’s defensive success, and Shaw has the potential to be that player. If Shaw can improve his performance and provide stability to the secondary, Wisconsin’s defense can become a more complete unit capable of shutting down opponents both through the air and on the ground.

6. Special Teams – A Group That Cannot Be Overlooked

While often an afterthought, special teams can play a pivotal role in winning close games. In the loss to Oregon, Wisconsin’s special teams unit didn’t make the critical plays needed to shift momentum in their favor. Whether it’s a timely field goal, a solid punt return, or excellent coverage on kickoffs, special teams can make a huge difference.

For Wisconsin to rebound and remain competitive, they will need to rely on the consistency of their special teams unit. Vito Calvaruso, the kicker, will need to deliver when called upon, while Anthony Lotti, the punter, will need to flip the field and provide the defense with good field position. Additionally, returners need to provide solid yardage on kickoffs and punts, setting up the offense with favorable starting positions.

Special teams may not get the spotlight, but they can be the difference between victory and defeat. If the unit plays up to its potential, it could be the key to unlocking the full potential of the Wisconsin football team.