Badgers Football 2015 Preview

NEW ERABADGERS FOOTBALL 2015 PREVIEW

has found his way back to UW and intends to stay

PLUS: Position by position previews Opponent previews National outlook

PAUL CHRYST

BIG, BAD BAMASeason-opening opponent Alabama has more incentive than usual

TOM OATESBadgers 2015 schedule more favorable than 2016

CHEVY DEALERSCHEVY DEALERSBadgerlandChevy.com

READY FOR KICK OFF?SEE BACK COVER TO SAVE ON, WISCONSIN.

2 SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2015 WISCONSIN STATE JOURNALBADGERS FOOTBALL 2015

CHRYST BACK WHERE HE BELONGS

From a boy who found ways to sneak into Camp Randall Stadium and then became a productive UW player before a highly successful assistant coaching stint at the school, It was no surprise when he returned to take over the program after Gary Andersens surprise exit in December. Page 4

BADGERS BY POSITION

Quarterbacks, running backs ....12

Wide receivers, tight ends,offensive linemen...................... 14

Linebackers, defensive linemen ......................15

Defensive backs ........................ 16

Specialists ................................. 18

CRIMSON TIDE READY FOR NEW WAVE

Losses to Auburn and Ohio State at the end of last season have provided further motivation for Alabama heading into the season starting with the Sept. 5 opener against UW in Arlington, Texas. Page 21

2015 OPPONENTS

Alabama, Miami (Ohio), Troy, Hawaii ............................... 22

Iowa ........................................... 23

Nebraska, Purdue, Illinois ......... 24

Rutgers, Maryland .................... 25

Northwestern, Minnesota ......... 26

REST OF BIG TEN

Ohio State, Michigan State,

Michigan .................................... 28

Penn State, Indiana ................... 29

BIG TEN HIGH-FIVES

Whos got the best chance to make the playoffs? What are the top non-conference games? Who are the impact transfers? Who are the impact freshmen? Tom Oates has the answers in his primer. Page 34

LETS GO NATIONAL

Quarterbacks who could win the Heisman, must-see TV games, former UW coaches, coaches on the hot seat and faces in new places are among 15 topics. Page 38

STATS & MAPS

Schedule, roster ..........................6

Guide to Camp Randall ..............19

INSIDESECTION CREDITS Sports editor: Greg Sprout.

Assistant sports editors: Reed Southmayd, Art Kabelowsky.

Photo editor: Steve Apps.

Section reporters: Jason Galloway, Jim Polzin, Tom Oates.

Section designer: Mike Rott.

Copy editors: Jason McMahon, John Nolan, Howard Thomas, Nick Zizzo.

Photographers: Amber Arnold, John Hart, M.P. King.

ON MADISON.COM/SPORTS Daily reports: Beat reporter Jason Galloway has your team covered with daily news, features and analysis.

Red Zone podcast: Galloway talks Badgers each week this season.

Photo galleries : Check out all of the big plays and great emotion from every UW game.

Live blogs: Reporters and correspondents set the pregame scene and provide in-game updates and analysis every Saturday.

Video: Watch pregame and postgame interviews with players and coaches throughout the season.

E-edition: Scan through our pages of print coverage.

Follow us on Twitter:

Beat reporter Jason Galloway: @Jason_Galloway

Columnist Tom Oates: @TomOatesWSJ

Reporter Jim Polzin: @JimPolzinWSJ

Two years ago, it all looked so easy.The schedule, that is.The University of Wisconsin had just joined Ohio State and Michigan as the only Big Ten Conference schools to appear in three straight Rose Bowl games and, after two decades of upward mobility in

the fi rmly set social strata of college football, the Badgers had positioned themselves perfectly to take another step, per-haps even into the sports upper crust.

Part of that was due to UWs perennially under-rated talent, part was due to the rising confi dence level throughout the program and part was due to the momentum and

visibility gained from reaching New Years Day bowls seven times in the nine years prior to the 2013 season. Mostly, though, the Badgers had a rare opportunity to gain ground on college footballs blue bloods because of their schedule.

The combination of season-opening

national showcase games against SEC superpowers, low-stress non-conference games after that and a post-expansion Big Ten schedule that avoided the con-ferences traditionally strong teams gave UWs already-respected program a three-year window of opportunity to accomplish something truly special. With only a game or two each season where the Badgers likely wouldnt be favored, the think-ing was UW might be able to spring an upset or two and get into the national title picture once or twice, thereby bolstering its case for inclusion among the nations elite programs.

Two years later, it still hasnt happened. UW didnt exactly drop the ball during that time, having gone 20-7 and reaching two more New Years Day bowls under since-departed coach Gary Andersen. But the Badgers didnt exactly seize the opportu-nity, either. Now they are down to one fi nal chance before the schedule especially

the Big Ten portion of it gains a much higher degree of di culty.

Despite opening with a neutral-site game against mighty Alabama, ranked No. 3 in the preseason Associated Press poll, the No. 20 Badgers dont have another ranked opponent on their regular-

season schedule. Sure, top-ranked Ohio State would probably await UW in the Big Ten Championship Game, but with a new coach in hometown favorite Paul Chryst and a schedule rife with potential wins, that game would repre-

sent yet another opportunity should UW reach it. Heck, it might even be for a berth in the four-team College Football Playo .

The Badgers have only themselves to blame for not capitalizing on their favor-able schedule the past two seasons. Despite some close calls in its biggest games, UW couldnt pull o the upsets it needed when it got onto the national stage. UW also lost one game each season Penn State in 2013, Northwestern last year

that it had no business losing.The Badgers 2013 season was derailed

when they lost twice in September. The fi rst loss was at Arizona State when Ander-sens fl awed end-game strategy didnt leave them with enough time to attempt a potential winning fi eld goal. The sec-ond came when they had no answer for Ohio States Braxton Miller and fell to the surprising Buckeyes by a touchdown in Columbus.

In 2014, UW opened with a neutral-site game against SEC power LSU at Hous-ton. UW controlled the Tigers for three quarters before dropping a 28-24 deci-sion as Andersen, apparently in a snit over something Melvin Gordon said at halftime, benched his star running back for much of the second half. Any chance at greatness ended a few weeks later in a 20-14 loss at Northwestern during which Andersen fi nally realized too late that Tanner McEvoy wasnt the answer at quarterback.

Chryst o ers hope that misguided coaching decisions are a thing of the past for the Badgers, who have talent and

No time like the presentUWs 2016 slate is much more di cult, so its important to capitalize this year

TOMOATES

Please see OATES, Page 17

For the real reason 2015 has a chance to be special, look no further than the schedule.

PHIL HANDS | ON THE 2015 BADGERS

Special Section Sunday, auguSt 30, 2015 P3

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PAUL CHRYST | A FOOTBALL LIFE

JASON GALLOWAY | [email protected], 608-252-6174

It wasnt all that uncommon for the trumpet of an elephant to sound throughout the neighbor-hood where Paul Chryst grew up.

The same, perhaps with the right gust of wind, could be said for the University of Wis-

consin band.The Henry Vilas Zoo was one of the few things

closer to his childhood home on Vilas Avenue than Camp Randall Stadium a fi ve-minute bike ride he and his friends made countless times growing up in Madison.

One way or another, football in hand, they always found a way onto the fi eld.

We could climb over fences, said John Lindauer, a childhood friend of Chryst. There were gates that we knew how to get through. We used to be able to pop a door over at the fi eldhouse and sneak in that way.

There were tons of di erent ways.Even when they were spotted, they were often

ignored. These were harmless kids, dreaming the stands were full, attempting to down punts inside the 5-yard line anything that a tree-fi lled park wouldnt allow.

Those days were some of Chrysts fi rst experiences at Camp Randall, a place he never leaves for good.

He endured the true lows of the Badgers football program as a player and helped it to some of its great-est heights as an o ensive coordinator.

While staying at HotelRED when he was back in Madison to accept UWs coaching position in December, Chryst said he peered across the street at the stadium.

It was di cult to gloss over any memories in that moment, even those that had nothing to do with

football.I remember being a paperboy and delivering

six papers to the stadium, he said at his introductory news conference. I had one of my worst wipeouts on my bike. I hit the railroad tracks the wrong way and went to heal myself at the donut shop right down the road.

No one has experienced UW like Paul Chryst.When athletic director Barry Alvarez walked with

him through the facilities in December, Chryst took greater notice of the memorabilia on the walls.

The players featured included old-timers he looked up to as a kid, former teammates and recent stars he helped succeed when he was an assistant coach. He had a connection to every era.

PERFECT FITJOHN HART State Journal archives

Paul Chryst has come full circle at UW: first a player for four years, then an assistant for seven years, now the programs coach. His only previous head coaching stint was three years at Pittsburgh.

Lifelong ties, experience made Chryst easy choice for coach

BORNNov. 17, 1965, at St. Marys Hospital

in Madison, the son of George and Patricia Chryst. George Chryst played football at the University of Wisconsin and later served as an assistant coach with the program.

HIGH SCHOOL CAREERPlatteville High School, 1980 to

83: After living in Madison the first 14 years of his life, Chryst moved to Platteville when his father was hired as UW-Plattevilles football coach in 1979. Chryst was a three-year starter at quarterback at Platteville High School, finishing his career with 4,000 passing yards and 40 touchdown passes.

Chryst was a first-team All-State honoree as a senior in 1983 despite missing much of the season with a thigh injury. When he was recover-ing from his injury, Chryst helped the coaching staff and even called plays at times. It scares me, Platteville coach Mark Berg told the State Journal at the time. Sometimes he knows more football than me. He really has a grasp for the game.

Chryst returned during the postseason and led Platteville to the WIAA Division 4 state title. In a 42-30 semifinal victory over DeForest, Chryst completed 25 of 37 passes for 338 yards and four touchdowns. In the title game, he had two TD passes in the Hillmens 16-6 victory over Mosinee.

UW CAREERBadgers, 1984 to 88: Chryst was

part of UWs 1984 recruiting class. He played for three head coaches during his five seasons: Dave McClain, Jim Hilles and Don Morton.

Chryst was recruited as a quarterback but also spent time at defensive back, linebacker, tight end, long snapper and holder during his career.

As a junior in 1987, Chryst appeared at quarterback and scored the go-

ahead touchdown during a 30-13 victory over Ball State. The following week, Morton moved him to tight end in UWs veer offense.

Prior to his final game with the Badgers, a 36-0 loss at Michigan State on Nov. 19, 1988, Chryst told the State Journal: Football is a simple game. You dont have to be a great athlete. Im not a great athlete, because there are guys who are faster, stronger and bigger than I am. But if you put your mind to it, you can do it.

COLLEGIATE COACHINGWest Virginia, 1989, 90: Graduate

assistant under coach Don Nehlen. The Mountaineers went 12-10-1 during that stretch, including 8-3-1 in 1989.

UW-Platteville, 1993: Offensive coordinator, quarterbacks. The Pioneers went 3-7 under coach Jim Kinder, who took over when Chrysts father, George, died Dec. 3, 1992.

Illinois State, 1995: Offensive coordinator, quarterbacks. The Redbirds went 5-6 under coach Jim Heacock.

Oregon State, 1997, 98: Offensive coordinator, quarterbacks. The Beavers went 8-14 under coach Mike Riley during this stretch.

Wisconsin, 2002: Tight ends. The Badgers went 8-6 under coach Barry Alvarez, including 2-6 in the Big Ten.

Oregon State, 2003, 04: Offensive coordinator, quarterbacks. The Beavers went 15-10 under Riley during this stretch, winning bowl games both seasons.

Wisconsin, 2005: Co-offensive coordinator, tight ends. The Badgers went 10-3, including a 24-10 victory over Auburn in the Capital One Bowl in Alvarezs final season. John Stoccos 2,920 passing yards that season are the second-most at UW, topped only by Russell Wilsons 3,175 under Chrysts watch in 2011.

Wisconsin, 2006 to 11: Offensive coordinator, quarterbacks. The Badgers went 60-19 during this span, winning back-to-back Big Ten titles the final two seasons. The Badgers aver-aged 44.1 points per game in 2011 and

41.5 the previous season, the top two marks in program history. Five of the top 10 seasons in passing offense came during this stretch, as well as four of the top 10 seasons in total offense.

Pittsburgh, 2012 to 14: Head coach, quarterbacks. The Panthers went 19-19 under Chryst. They were 3-4 against ranked teams, 11-9 at home, 7-9 on the road, 1-1 in bowl games and 5-9 in games decided by a touchdown or less.

Wisconsin, 2015: Chryst was hired on Dec. 17, 2014, exactly seven days after Gary Andersen abruptly departed for Oregon State after two seasons in charge of the Badgers. As great a day as today is and it is, its a great day I also dont want it to be the best day, Chryst said at his introductory news conference. Im looking forward to going to work.

PROFESSIONAL COACHING

San Antonio Riders, WLAF, 1991, 92: Wide receivers, running backs, tight ends. The Riders went 4-6 and 7-3 under Riley. The Riders quarterback was Jason Garrett, who now coaches the Dallas Cowboys.

Ottawa Rough Riders, CFL, 1994: Quarterbacks. The Rough Riders went 4-14 under coach Adam Rita.

Saskatchewan Roughriders, CFL, 1996: Offensive coordinator, quarterbacks. The Roughriders went 5-13 under coach Jim Daley.

San Diego Chargers, NFL, 1999 to 2001: Tight ends. The Chargers went 8-8, 1-15 and 5-11 under Riley.

Jim Polzin

M.P. KING State Journal

Paul Chryst speaks during his introductory news conference on Dec. 17, 2014, at the Nicholas-Johnson Pavilion. To be able to come back to Wisconsin truly is special, he said that day. It is something you dont take for granted.

Please see CHRYST, Page 8

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6 Sunday, auguSt 30, 2015 WISCOnSIn StatE JOuRnaLBADGERS FOOTBALL 2015

UWS 2014 SEASON (11-3)GAME 1: Aug. 30, at Houston, Texas

1 2 3 4 FWisconsin ....10 7 7 0 24LSU .............. 7 0 6 15 28

GAME 2: Sept. 6, Camp Randall

1 2 3 4 FWestern Ill. ... 0 3 0 0 3Wisconsin ..... 2 7 14 14 37


1 2 3 4 FBowling Gr. ..10 0 0 7 17Wisconsin ... 14 27 21 6 68


1 2 3 4 FSo. Florida ....3 0 7 0 10Wisconsin ......3 0 17 7 27

GAME 5: Sept. 27, at Evanston, Ill.

1 2 3 4 F Wisconsin ..... 0 0 7 7 14Nwestern ..... 3 7 7 3 20

GAME 6: Oct. 11, Camp Randall

1 2 3 4 F Illinois .......... 14 0 0 14 28Wisconsin ....... 7 17 7 7 38

GAME 7: Oct. 25, Camp Randall

1 2 3 4 F Maryland ......... 0 0 0 7 7Wisconsin ......10 14 14 14 52

GAME 8: Nov. 1, at Piscataway, N.J.

1 2 3 4 F Wisconsin ........ 7 13 10 7 37Rutgers ......... 0 0 0 0 0

GAME 9: Nov. 8, West Lafayette, Ind.

1 2 3 4 F Wisconsin ......... 7 17 7 3 34Purdue ............3 3 10 0 16

GAME 10: Nov. 15, Camp Randall

1 2 3 4 F Nebraska ....... 10 7 0 7 24Wisconsin ........3 21 28 7 59

GAME 11: Nov. 23, at Iowa City

1 2 3 4 F Wisconsin .......... 3 13 3 7 26Iowa ................3 0 8 13 24

GAME 12: Nov. 30, Camp Randall

1 2 3 4 F Minnesota ....... 14 3 0 7 24Wisconsin ........3 10 7 14 34

GAME 13: Dec. 6, at Indianapolis

1 2 3 4 F Wisconsin ......... 0 0 0 0 0Ohio State .....14 24 7 14 59

GAME 13: Jan. 1, at Citrus Bowl

1 2 3 4 OT F Auburn 7 7 3 14 0 31Wisconsin 7 0 14 10 3 34

No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr.2 Joel Stave QB 6-5 219 *Sr.3 Tanner McEvoy WR/S 6-6 231 *Sr.5 Darius Hillary CB 5-11 187 *Sr.6 Corey Clement RB 5-11 219 Jr.7 D.J. Gillins QB 6-3 198 *Fr.7 Michael Caputo S 6-1 206 *Sr.8 Sojourn Shelton CB 5-9 176 Jr.9 Jordan Fredrick WR 6-4 208 *Sr.9 Titus Booker CB 5-11 187 Fr.10 Rafael Gaglianone K 5-11 240 So.11 T.J. Reynard CB 5-10 170 Sr.11 Jazz Peavy WR 6-0 189 *So.12 Alex Hornibrook QB 6-4 211 Fr.12 Natrell Jamerson CB 6-0 191 So.13 Evan Bondoc S 6-1 201 *Fr.13 Bart Houston QB 6-4 224 *Jr.14 DCota Dixon S 5-10 203 So.14 Thad Armstrong QB 6-5 213 *Jr.15 Robert Wheelwright WR 6-3 202 Jr.16 Reggie Love WR 6-3 216 *Jr.19 Leo Musso S 5-10 186 *Jr.20 Austin Ramesh FB 6-1 246 *So.21 Arrington Farrar S 6-2 215 Fr.21 Mark Saari RB 6-0 208 *Fr.22 Caleb Kinlaw RB 5-10 190 *Fr.23 Dare Ogunbowale RB 5-11 200 *Jr.24 Keelon Brookins ILB 5-11 213 *So.24 John Damrow TE 6-3 225 So.

24 Ricky Finco WR 5-8 185 So.25 Derrick Tindal CB 5-11 176 So.26 Derek Straus FB 6-1 227 *Sr.26 Elijah Strong CB 6-0 170 Fr.27 Bradrick Shaw RB 6-1 205 Fr.28 Taiwan Deal RB 6-1 220 *Fr.29 Max Praschak OLB 6-2 198 Fr.29 Terrance Floyd CB 5-10 198 *Sr.30 Jake Whalen OLB 6-1 229 Fr.30 Serge Trezy RB 6-2 202 *Jr.31 Lubern Figaro S 6-0 181 So.32 Leon Jacobs ILB 6-2 233 Jr.32 Noah Stengel WR 6-2 201 *Fr.34 Derek Watt FB 6-2 236 *Sr.34 Chikwe Obasih DE 6-3 268 *So.36 Troy Laufenberg RB 5-10 190 Fr.36 Joe Ferguson S 6-1 195 *So.37 Andrew Endicott K 5-9 172 Jr.37 Bret Verstegen S 5-11 182 Fr.38 P.J. Rosowski P 6-3 199 *Fr.39 Zach Hintze K 6-0 170 Fr.41 Jesse Hayes OLB 6-3 233 *Sr.41 Henry Houden WR 6-4 194 Fr.42 T.J. Watt OLB 6-5 244 *So.43 Peter Roy WR 6-0 186 *Fr.43 Ryan Connelly ILB 6-3 233 *Fr.44 Eric Steffes TE 6-5 255 *Jr.45 Nick Thomas ILB 6-2 224 Fr.46 Austin Traylor TE 6-4 245 *Sr.

47 Mitchell Herl TE 6-4 217 Fr.47 Vince Biegel OLB 6-4 246 *Jr.48 Jack Cichy OLB 6-2 223 *So.49 Kyle Penniston TE 6-4 233 Fr.50 Chris Orr ILB 6-0 228 Fr.51 Alec Ingold ILB 6-2 237 Fr.52 Jacob Maxwell OL 6-6 309 *Fr.52 Kellen Jones ILB 6-0 230 *Sr.52 David Pfaff DE 6-2 257 Fr.53 T.J. Edwards ILB 6-1 238 *Fr.54 Ty DeForest ILB 6-0 220 Fr.55 Garret Dooley OLB 6-3 234 *So.56 Zack Baun OLB 6-3 221 Fr.57 Alec James DE 6-3 264 *So.58 Joe Schobert OLB 6-2 236 Sr.58 George Panos OL 6-5 321 *Fr.59 Tyler Johnson OLB 6-3 234 Fr.60 Connor Udelhoven LS 6-0 225 *Jr.61 Tyler Marz OL 6-7 325 *Sr.62 Walker Williams OL 6-7 321 *Jr.63 Michael Deiter OL 6-6 316 *Fr.64 Brett Connors OL 6-6 310 *Fr.65 Ryan Ramczyk OL 6-6 297 Jr.65 Olive Sagapolu NT 6-2 332 Fr.66 Kelly Thomas DE 6-6 246 Fr.66 Beau Benzschawel OL 6-6 308 *Fr.67 Jon Dietzen OL 6-6 329 Fr.68 David Moorman OL 6-5 288 Fr.69 Aidan McNamara OL 6-4 314 *So.

70 Dan Voltz OL 6-3 301 *Jr.71 Ray Ball OL 6-7 321 *Sr.73 Kevin Estes OL 6-5 273 Fr.74 Hayden Biegel OL 6-7 299 *So.74 Gunnar Roberge NT 6-4 299 Fr.75 Micah Kapoi OL 6-3 330 *Fr.76 Logan Schmidt OL 6-4 303 *Jr.77 Ian Dretzka OL 6-6 312 Fr.78 Jason Erdmann OL 6-6 326 Fr.79 Ben Hemer OL 6-6 299 *So.81 Troy Fumagalli TE 6-6 247 *So.82 A.J. Jordan WR 6-0 195 *Sr.84 Andrew James WR 6-0 166 Fr.85 Krenwick Sanders WR 6-2 204 So.86 Alex Erickson WR 6-0 197 *Sr.87 George Rushing WR 6-1 180 So.89 David Edwards TE 6-7 239 Fr.90 Drew Meyer P 6-3 189 *Sr.91 Zander Neuville DE 6-5 255 *Fr.92 Jeremy Patterson NT 6-3 335 *Fr.93 Jake Keefer DE 6-3 273 *Sr.94 Conor Sheehy NT 6-4 272 So.95 Arthur Goldberg DE 6-3 296 *Jr.96 Billy Hirschfeld DE 6-6 287 *Fr.96 Connor Allen P 6-0 170 Fr.97 Jack Russell K 6-0 175 Sr.97 Andrew Ruzek DE 6-6 258 Fr.98 Kraig Howe DE 6-3 241 Fr.

* Has used redshirt year.

WISCONSINS 2015 NUMERICAL ROSTER

UW OFFENSE: BY POSITION UW DEFENSE: BY POSITION

No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr.

QUARTERBACKS 14 Thad Armstrong QB 6-5 213 Jr.7 D.J. Gillins QB 6-3 198 *Fr.12 Alex Hornibrook QB 6-4 211 Fr.13 Bart Houston QB 6-4 224 *Jr.2 Joel Stave QB 6-5 219 *Sr.

RUNNING BACKS 6 Corey Clement RB 5-11 219 Jr.28 Taiwan Deal RB 6-1 220 *Fr.22 Caleb Kinlaw RB 5-10 190 *Fr.36 Troy Laufenberg RB 5-10 190 Fr.23 Dare Ogunbowale RB 5-11 200 *Jr.20 Austin Ramesh FB 6-1 246 *So.21 Mark Saari RB 6-0 208 *Fr.27 Bradrick Shaw RB 6-1 205 Fr.26 Derek Straus FB 6-1 227 *Sr.30 Serge Trezy RB 6-2 202 *Jr.34 Derek Watt FB 6-2 236 *Sr.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN 71 Ray Ball OL 6-7 321 *Sr.66 Beau Benzschawel OL 6-6 308 *Fr.74 Hayden Biegel OL 6-7 299 *So.64 Brett Connors OL 6-6 310 *Fr.63 Michael Deiter OL 6-6 316 *Fr.67 Jon Dietzen OL 6-6 329 Fr.77 Ian Dretzka OL 6-6 312 Fr.78 Jason Erdmann OL 6-6 326 Fr.73 Kevin Estes OL 6-5 273 Fr.79 Ben Hemer OL 6-6 299 *So.75 Micah Kapoi OL 6-3 330 *Fr.61 Tyler Marz OL 6-7 325 *Sr.

52 Jacob Maxwell OL 6-6 309 *Fr.69 Aidan McNamara OL 6-4 314 *So.68 David Moorman OL 6-5 288 Fr.58 George Panos OL 6-5 321 *Fr.65 Ryan Ramczyk OL 6-6 297 Jr.76 Logan Schmidt OL 6-4 303 *Jr.70 Dan Voltz OL 6-3 301 *Jr.62 Walker Williams OL 6-7 321 *Jr.

WIDE RECEIVERS 86 Alex Erickson WR 6-0 197 *Sr.24 Ricky Finco WR 5-8 185 So.9 Jordan Fredrick WR 6-4 208 *Sr.41 Henry Houden WR 6-4 194 Fr.84 Andrew James WR 6-0 166 Fr.82 A.J. Jordan WR 6-0 195 *Sr.16 Reggie Love WR 6-3 216 *Jr.3 Tanner McEvoy WR 6-6 231 *Sr.11 Jazz Peavy WR 6-0 189 *So.43 Peter Roy WR 6-0 186 *Fr.87 George Rushing WR 6-1 180 So.85 Krenwick Sanders WR 6-2 204 So.32 Noah Stengel WR 6-2 201 *Fr.15 Robert Wheelwright WR 6-3 202 Jr.

TIGHT ENDS 24 John Damrow TE 6-3 225 So.89 David Edwards TE 6-7 239 Fr.81 Troy Fumagalli TE 6-6 247 *So.47 Mitchell Herl TE 6-4 217 Fr.49 Kyle Penniston TE 6-4 233 Fr.44 Eric Steffes TE 6-5 255 *Jr.46 Austin Traylor TE 6-4 245 *Sr.

HEAD COACH: Paul Chryst, first year.

No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr.

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

95 Arthur Goldberg DE 6-3 296 *Jr.96 Billy Hirschfeld DE 6-6 287 *Fr.98 Kraig Howe DE 6-3 241 Fr.57 Alec James DE 6-3 264 *So.93 Jake Keefer DE 6-3 273 *Sr.91 Zander Neuville DE 6-5 255 *Fr.34 Chikwe Obasih DE 6-3 268 *So.92 Jeremy Patterson NT 6-3 335 *Fr.52 David Pfaff DE 6-2 257 Fr.74 Gunnar Roberge NT 6-4 299 Fr.97 Andrew Ruzek DE 6-6 258 Fr.65 Olive Sagapolu NT 6-2 332 Fr.94 Conor Sheehy NT 6-4 272 So.66 Kelly Thomas DE 6-6 246 Fr.

LINEBACKERS 56 Zack Baun OLB 6-3 221 Fr.47 Vince Biegel OLB 6-4 246 *Jr.24 Keelon Brookins ILB 5-11 213 *So.48 Jack Cichy OLB 6-2 223 *So.43 Ryan Connelly ILB 6-3 233 *Fr.54 Ty DeForest ILB 6-0 220 Fr.55 Garret Dooley OLB 6-3 234 *So.53 T.J. Edwards ILB 6-1 238 *Fr.41 Jesse Hayes OLB 6-3 233 *Sr.51 Alec Ingold ILB 6-2 237 Fr.32 Leon Jacobs ILB 6-2 233 Jr.59 Tyler Johnson OLB 6-3 234 Fr.52 Kellen Jones ILB 6-0 230 *Sr.50 Chris Orr ILB 6-0 228 Fr.29 Max Praschak OLB 6-2 198 Fr.

58 Joe Schobert OLB 6-2 236 Sr.45 Nick Thomas ILB 6-2 224 Fr.42 T.J. Watt OLB 6-5 244 *So.30 Jake Whalen OLB 6-1 229 Fr.

DEFENSIVE BACKS 13 Evan Bondoc S 6-1 201 *Fr.9 Titus Booker CB 5-11 187 Fr.7 Michael Caputo S 6-1 206 *Sr.14 DCota Dixon S 5-10 203 So.29 Terrance Floyd CB 5-10 198 *Sr.21 Arrington Farrar S 6-2 215 Fr.36 Joe Ferguson S 6-1 195 *So.31 Lubern Figaro S 6-0 181 So.5 Darius Hillary CB 5-11 187 *Sr.12 Natrell Jamerson CB 6-0 191 So.3 Tanner McEvoy S 6-6 231 *Sr.19 Leo Musso S 5-10 186 *Jr.11 T.J. Reynard CB 5-10 170 Sr.8 Sojourn Shelton CB 5-9 176 Jr.26 Elijah Strong CB 6-0 170 Fr.25 Derrick Tindal CB 5-11 176 So.37 Bret Verstegen S 5-11 182 Fr.

LONG SNAPPERS 60 Connor Udelhoven LS 6-0 225 *Jr. PUNTERS, KICKERS96 Connor Allen P 6-0 170 Fr.37 Andrew Endicott K 5-9 172 Jr.10 Rafael Gaglianone K 5-11 240 So.39 Zach Hintze K 6-0 170 Fr.90 Drew Meyer P 6-3 189 *Sr.38 P.J. Rosowski P 6-3 199 *Fr.97 Jack Russell K 6-0 175 Sr.

Badgers6,564

Opponents4,117

Total net yards

Rushing1,765

Passing2,352

Yards allowed

2014 SPEC

IALIST

S20

14 OFF

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14 DEF

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UWS 2015 SCHEDULEGAME 1: Sept. 5

vs. Alabamaat Arlington, Texas; 7 p.m.Series: UW leads, 1-0

GAME 2: Sept. 12

vs. Miami (Ohio)Camp Randall Stadium; 11 a.m.Series: First meeting

GAME 3: Sept. 19

vs. TroyCamp Randall Stadium; 2:30 p.m.Series: First meeting

GAME 4: Sept. 26

vs. HawaiiCamp Randall Stadium; 7 p.m.Series: UW leads, 5-1

GAME 5: Oct. 3

vs. IowaCamp Randall Stadium; time TBASeries: UW leads, 44-42-2

GAME 6: Oct. 10

at NebraskaMemorial Stadium, Lincoln; time TBASeries: UW leads, 5-4

GAME 7: Oct. 17

vs. PurdueCamp Randall Stadium; 11 a.m.Series: UW leads, 45-29-8

GAME 8: Oct. 24

at IllinoisMemorial Stadium, Champaign, 2:30 p.m. Series: UW leads, 38-36-7

GAME 9: Oct. 31

vs. RutgersCamp Randall Stadium; time TBASeries: UW leads, 1-0

GAME 10: Nov. 7

at MarylandByrd Stadium, College Park; 2:30 p.m.Series: UW leads, 1-0

GAME 11: Nov. 21

vs. NorthwesternCamp Randall Stadium; time TBASeries: UW leads, 57-34-5

GAME 12: Nov. 28

at MinnesotaTCF Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, time TBASeries: Minnesota leads, 59-57-8

Big Ten teams UW will not face:

Indiana (UW leads series, 40-18-2) Michigan (Michigan leads series, 49-14-1) Michigan State (Michigan State leads series, 30-22) Ohio State (Ohio State leads series, 57-18-5) Penn State (UW leads series, 9-8)

Scoring, by quarter

First Second Third Fourth Totalquarter quarter quarter qtr. / OT score

7688

146

54

156

48

106 101

484

291Badgers Opponents

Running back Melvin Gordon and guard Kyle Costigan were first-team All-Big Ten picks. Gordon was the runner-up in the Heisman Trophy voting.

Rushing leaders ATT YDS TD YPGGordon, M. 343 2,670 29 184.8Clement, C. 147 969 9 67.8McEvoy, T. 65 596 6 41.0

Passing leaders CMP.-ATT.-INT YDS TD YPGStave, J. 110-206-10 1,350 9 135.0Phillips, C. 65-112-6 709 5 50.6Houston, B. 1-3-0 6 1 1.0

Receiving leaders NO YDS TD YPGErickson, A. 55 772 3 55.1Arneson, S. 29 387 4 27.6Gordon, M. 19 153 3 10.9

JOEL STAVETook over at quarterback in the fifth game against Northwestern and led the Badgers to an 8-1 record as the starter.

COREY CLEMENTAveraged 6.46 yards per carry and rushed for nine touchdowns behind first-round NFL draft pick Melvin Gordon.

ALEX ERICKSONThe Badgers leading receiver (55 catches, 772 yards) a year ago, Erickson will be Staves top target again this season.

VINCE BIEGELThe linebacker enjoyed a breakout season in 2014 that included 7.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss.

MICHAEL CAPUTOLed the Badgers with 106 tackles and was the only Badger to be named a captain in the spring.

DARIUS HILLARYOne of three returning starters in the secondary who often manned up against the oppositions No. 1 receiver last season.

Interception leaders NO YDS TD AVGPeneal, J. 2 14 0 7.0Others 4 107 0 26.8

The Badgers forced 16 turn-overs in 2014 (six intercep-tions, 10 fumble recoveries). Linebacker Derek Landisch earned all-Big Ten honors.

Badgers Opponents

10 11

13 6

16

Fumbles lost

Sacks by

Intercep-tions

Field goals FGM-FGA PCT LG BLKGaglianone, R. 19-22 86.4 51 0

Att. MadeBadgers

22 1916 15

Att. MadeOpponents

Punts NO YDS AVG LG TBMeyer, D. 54 2,020 37.4 57 3

Att. Avg.Badgers

61

37.1

98

43.1

Att. Avg.Opponents

Kickoffs NO YDS AVG TB OBEndicott, A. 90 5,535 61.5 28 1Gaglianone, R. 2 120 60.0 0 0

Att. Avg.Badgers

92

61.5 62 63.3

Att. Avg.Opponents

37

2015 WISCONSIN FOOTBALL PREVIEW | NAMES AND NUMBERS

2014 STATISTICAL RECAP

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BADGERS FOOTBALL 2015

I think theres a very strong loyalty that he has to this university, Alvarez said. (He) understands the formula that we have to win here. He understands the roots and the history of the program. He knows the state. He knows the high school coaches. They know him.

I think fit is always very important. You have to have someone that can identify with our fans and the state, and vice versa. I know Paul can do that.

Ten years after Alvarez announced his retirement from coaching, he may have finally found the perfect fit to be his long-term replacement.

PREPARED FOR THE MOMENTChrysts senior year at UW in 1988 was

one of the worst the Badgers had ever seen, and he could hardly do anything about it.

He began his career as a quarterback

but eventually switched to tight end after coach Don Morton didnt believe he was a good fit as a signal caller in UWs veer offense.

Chryst certainly wasnt the teams best player, and he didnt hold the title of captain.

Still, he felt something needed to change after the Badgers winless start to the sea-son bled through the end of October.

Paul called a meeting of all the seniors, former UW safety Paul Nowka said. It was crazy. I remember some of the coaching staff came in and Paul actually ran the meeting. Walking away from that, you realized you had someone who had a special gift to lead people, even as a player. Thats a moment that definitely stands out.

It wasnt long after that meeting the Badgers won their first and only game of the year over rival Minnesota.

I think as we sort of started playing together and going through some ups and downs, you see someones true colors and true character through the trials and junk that we went through, Nowka said. Paul

always had a fierce loyalty to Wisconsin and to the football program.

Nowka first met Chryst when he was being recruited by the Badgers and Chryst was a first-year player.

Even then, he noticed Chryst had an ability to see football differently than most players a wiring to look at it from a broader perspective. A natural coach.

In fact, it would be difficult to find someone who played with Chryst that didnt claim to forecast his bright coaching future.

And that wasnt just due to his father, George Chryst, who began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at UW before successful stints at Edgewood High School and UW-Platteville.

We used to watch film together, former Badgers fullback Joe Armentrout said of Paul Chryst. The things he was talking about adjustment-wise, you kind of scratch your head a little bit thinking, Huh, he might know more or as much as the guy teaching us this stuff.

These days, many laud Chrysts ability

to adjust his offensive system to his personnel, one of many reasons why Bret Bielema wanted to retain him when Bielema took over for Alvarez in 2006.

Chryst spent the next six seasons as UWs offensive coordinator, a lengthy time for someone who enjoyed as much success as he did.

He didnt lack opportunities to leave, turning down offensive coordinator openings with the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns among others.

I know that Wisconsin held a special place in his heart, Bielema said. He pulled on those emotions all the time, too. He was presented with numerous job opportunities, turned down many, many opportunities and a lot of times for more money to stay where he was at and what he felt was a really, really good situation for him and his family.

His extended time with the Badgers allowed him to learn what little he didnt already know about the program and


Paul Chryst chats with defensive end Alec James during an Aug. 10 practice at Camp Randall Stadium. Says former UW tight end Jacob Pedersen, whose final year at UW was 2013: (Chryst) is one of the best coaches Ive ever played for in my life. Just a genius.

Continued from Page 4

Chryst

Please see Page 9

WISCONSIN STATE JOURNAL SUNdAy, AUgUST 30, 2015 9BADGERS FOOTBALL 2015

JOHN HART State Journal archives

Paul Chryst is greeted by Jill Steffes of Fond du Lac during the Football 101 event on June 24 at Camp Randall Stadium. The fundraiser offered 300 women the chance to learn and practice the basics of football, tour the teams athletic facilities and interact with players and coaches.

become familiar with the intricacies of how Alvarez had turned the program around after Chrysts playing days.

That path to success was and still is unique to Madison.

It placed an emphasis on keeping the best in-state talent and recruiting athletes who also fit the university academically.

On the field, UW maintained the identity of a power running team that consistently produced some of the countrys top backs.

If you try to make Wisconsin ordinary or model it after another program, youre never going to have success, Bielema said. Its its own, unique entity. A very unique recruiting atmosphere. A unique set of campus standards that you have to be aware of.

I say all the time, if I hadnt had those two years with Coach Alvarez before I took over, I dont think we would have had near the amount of success. You were able to understand all the great qualities that we had to accent, but also understood the traditional pitfalls or speed bumps that lay in the way, and youre able to move around them, navigate them.

Chryst molded to that blueprint when he was the Badgers offensive coordinator.

He built strong relationships with high school coaches in the state, some of them who had already known his father well.

During his final year as the offensive coordinator in 2011, UW ranked sixth nationally in scoring and 11th in rushing.

I thought those were the best offenses we ever had, Alvarez said. They were balanced. He could run it. It was physical and met what we think is the plan here to succeed, the type of players we can recruit. Yet, off of that came a play-action game that was very difficult to defend.

Its no coincidence, with Chryst now in the head coaching role, 11 former Badgers players are now involved with the program, including two assistant coaches and four graduate assistants.

Those coaches, like Chryst, already know the path to success at UW.

(Chryst) is one of the best coaches Ive ever played for in my life. Just a genius, former Badgers tight end Jacob Pedersen said. He brought back another great staff with him, guys who are passionate about Wisconsin.

Former Badgers coach Gary Andersen became frustrated with UWs academic standards for incoming freshmen during his short, two-year stay in Madison, which

could have played a factor in him leaving the program for Oregon State.

Bielema believes having prior experience and familiarity with any program before taking over as coach is vital going as far to suggest athletic directors should have a coach-in-waiting already on the staff.

At UW, thats only amplified.There are so many times when people

take over a program and they put their trademark on it or their stamp, and sometimes its not going to work, Bielema said. I think if the program is going to go in the direction that it was under Coach Alvarez and kind of what I did during my seven years there, I do think it takes a special kind of person to recognize what it is.

Paul truly understands the environment there and how its going to have success.

LONG-TERM COMMITMENTWhen asked in December if UW was

a destination job for him, Chryst didnt give an immediate answer.

It wasnt because he was unsure whether he wants to spend the rest of his career as the coach of the Badgers.

He doesnt exactly believe thats his call to make.

Like Alvarez and UW mens basketball coach Bo Ryan before him, he feels he needs to earn the right to retire as the Badgers coach.

They earned the right to make it a destination job, Chryst said. I sure hope to work to try to make it that. But youve got to earn it, I believe.

While Alvarez hopes and expects this to be the long-term hire Andersen wasnt, that isnt the reason he offered

him the job.You just try to hire the best coach you

can, the best fit you can, Alvarez said. You just want them to do a good job. I hired Paul because I thought he was the best coach for us.

The Chryst era begins Saturday night in Arlington, Texas, but similar to any hire, it may take years before his work as the coach can be properly judged.

Like always, hes as prepared as anyone.Chryst now occupies a spacious office

at the top of Camp Randalls northeast corner, where sliding glass doors open up to a balcony overlooking the field that has provided him decades of memories.

He hopes there are plenty more to come.

As great a day as today is, Chryst said when he was hired, I also dont want it to be the best day.


I know that Wisconsin held a special place in his heart. He pulled on those emotions all the time, too. He was presented with numerous job opportunities, turned down many, many opportunities and a lot of times for more money to stay.

BRET BIELEMA UW coach during six of Paul Chrysts seasons as an assistant

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QUARTERBACKS


DEPTH CHARTProjected starter

2 Joel Stave 6-5 219 Sr. Greenfield

Backup

7 D.J. Gillins 6-3 198 Fr. Jacksonville, Fla.

The rest

13 Bart Houston 6-4 224 Jr. Dublin, Calif.

12 Alex Hornibrook 6-4 211 Fr. West Chester, Pa.

14 Thad Armstrong 6-5 213 Jr. Ottawa, Ill.

THE SKINNYThe Badgers are 21-7 in Staves 28 career starts. UWs all-time leader in quarterback wins is Brooks Bollinger with 30, so Stave is within striking distance. Its also possible Stave could end his career as the Badgers all-time leader in passing yards; he needs 2,739 yards to pass Darrell Bevell (7,686). Of course, Stave is coming off a season in which he completed just 53.4 percent of his passes and finished with more interceptions (10) than touchdown passes (nine). The two players directly behind Stave on the depth chart Gillins and Houston are unproven.

Photos by M.P. KING State Journal archives

Joel Stave

BADGERS BY POSITION >> Jim Polzin

THE NUMBER

THE NUMBER

3.5UWs yards per passing attempt in its three defeats last season. Stave and Tanner McEvoy combined to complete 38.5 percent of their passes with one touchdown and nine interceptions in losses to LSU, Northwestern and Ohio State.

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTUW coach Paul Chryst works his quarterback magic with Stave, who relaxes and enjoys a solid final season with the Badgers. Stave becomes the programs all-time leader in wins and puts his name near the top of the charts in other categories as well.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTStave struggles with consistency and plays poorly in key road games against Nebraska and Minnesota. Fans clamor for Gillins or Houston, but neither is quite ready to lead the offense.

7Career 100-yard games for Clement, including a career-high 164 vs. Illinois last season.

DEPTH CHARTTailbacksProjected starter

6 Corey Clement 5-11 219 Jr. Glassboro, N.J.

Backup

23 Dare Ogunbowale 5-11 200 Jr. Milwaukee

The rest

28 Taiwan Deal 6-1 220 Fr. Capitol Heights, Md.

27 Bradrick Shaw 6-1 205 Fr. Birmingham, Ala.

22 Caleb Kinlaw 5-10 190 Fr. Goose Creek, S.C.

30 Serge Trezy 6-2 202 Jr. Orlando, Fla.

21 Mark Saari 6-0 208 Fr. Montreal, Wis.

36 Troy Laufenberg 5-10 190 Fr. Waunakee

FullbacksProjected starter

34 Derek Watt 6-2 236 Sr. Pewaukee

Backups

20 Austin Ramesh 6-1 246 So. Land O Lakes, Wis.

26 Derek Straus 6-1 227 Sr. Waunakee

THE SKINNYClement has rushed for 1,496 yards and 16 touchdowns, averaging 7.0 yards per carry, in two seasons as a backup. Replacing a Heisman Trophy runner-up is no easy task, but Clement has proven hes ready to step into a featured role. Is anybody behind Clem-ent ready, however? The only backup who has registered a carry at UW is junior Dare Ogunbowale, who converted from defensive back early last season and finished with 193 yards and a touchdown as the Badgers No. 3 tailback. Deal is a powerful runner who would have played as a true freshman last season if not for a hand injury. Watt is a dependable blocker but only touched the ball once last season. Ramesh was pressed into action last season while Watt sat out with a foot injury.

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTClement becomes UWs next star tailback and gives the Badgers a 1,500-yard rusher for the fifth consecutive season. Hes fresh for the stretch run of the season because Ogun-bowale and Deal are productive when called upon.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTClement continues to flash big-play ability, but no other explosive player emerges on offense. Worse yet, theres such a big gap between Clement and his backups that hes forced to carry a heavy load and he wears down in November, leaving UWs running game running on empty. Corey Clement

Ogunbowale

Deal

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TIGHT ENDS



THE NUMBER

THE NUMBER

11Receptions of 20 yards or more last season for Erickson.

11Consecutive seasons in which at least one tight end has finished the season with 20 or more receptions.

DEPTH CHARTProjected starters

86 Alex Erickson 6-0 197 Sr. Darlington

3 Tanner McEvoy 6-6 231 Sr. Hillsdale, N.J.

Backups

16 Reggie Love 6-3 216 Jr. Boynton Beach, Fla.

15 Rob Wheelwright 6-3 202 Jr. Columbus, Ohio

9 Jordan Fredrick 6-4 208 Sr. Madison

11 Jazz Peavy 6-0 189 So. Kenosha

The rest

87 George Rushing 6-1 180 So. Miramar, Fla.

85 Krenwick Sanders 6-2 204 So. Jesup, Ga.

82 A.J. Jordan 6-0 195 Sr. Dayton, Ohio

32 Noah Stengel 6-2 201 Fr. Sheboygan

84 Andrew James 6-0 166 Fr. Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

43 Peter Roy 6-0 186 Fr. Muskego

41 Henry Houden 6-4 194 Fr. Madison

24 Ricky Finco 5-8 185 So. Hartland

THE SKINNYErickson is coming off a breakout season in which he fin-ished with 55 receptions for 772 yards. The other returning wide receivers combined for 22 receptions for 230 yards. Finding a reliable No. 2 option alongside Erickson will be important, but it may have to be a committee approach. McEvoy played safety in the spring but spent most of his time at wide receiver in camp. He looks like a natural receiver but is still learning the positions nuances. Wheelwrights only reception last season a 17-yard touchdown in a Big Ten West Division title-clinching victory over Minnesota was a big one. Fredrick, who had 13 receptions for 126 yards, had a solid camp. Peavy flashes potential but needs to be consistent and stay healthy. Love looks the part but hasnt been able to crack the lineup consistently. Will Rushing and Sanders take a big step after quiet freshman seasons? In short, there are plenty of bodies and the hope is one or two players step up to give Erickson some help.

Photos by M.P. KING State Journal archives

Alex Erickson

DEPTH CHARTProjected starters

46 Austin Traylor 6-4 245 Sr. Columbus, Ohio

Backup

81 Troy Fumagalli 6-6 247 So. Aurora, Ill.

The rest

44 Eric Steffes 6-5 255 Jr. Mount Calvary, Wis.

49 Kyle Penniston 6-4 233 Fr. Orange, Calif.

24 John Damrow 6-4 244 Fr. Delavan

47 Mitchell Herl 6-4 217 Fr. Middleton

89 David Edwards 6-7 239 Fr. Downers Grove, Ill.

THE SKINNYThe Badgers must replace the dependable Sam Arneson, a good blocker who also fin-ished his senior season with 29 receptions for 387 yards and a team-leading four touchdown receptions. Traylor got his first extended action last season but is more of a blocker. Fumagalli caught 14 passes as a freshman, including 10 consecutive games with at least one reception at one point. Steffes, who has contributed mainly on special teams, was limited by an injury in the spring. The future at the position should be in good shape after UW added a pair of talented players, Penniston and Edwards, in the 2015 recruiting class.

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTFumagalli blossoms into a star in a Paul Chryst offense that relies heavily on tight ends. Traylor also becomes more of a threat in the passing game, particularly in the red zone.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTTraylor is an effective blocker but doesnt complement Fumagalli as a receiving threat, putting even more pres-sure on the wide receivers to deliver.

Traylor

Troy Fumagalli

DEPTH CHART Projected starters

LT 61 Tyler Marz 6-7 325 Sr. Springfield, Minn.

LG 63 Michael Deiter 6-6 316 Fr. Curtice, Ohio

C 70 Dan Voltz 6-3 301 Jr. Barrington, Ill.

RG 75 Micah Kapoi 6-3 330 Fr. Kapolei, Hawaii

RT 62 Walker Williams 6-7 321 Jr. Tacoma, Wash.

Backups

LT 64 Brett Connors 6-6 310 Fr. New Berlin

LG 67 Jon Dietzen 6-6 329 Fr. Black Creek, Wis.

C 58 George Panos 6-5 321 Fr. Hartland

RG 71 Ray Ball 6-7 321 Sr. Columbus, Ohio

RT 52 Jacob Maxwell 6-6 309 Fr. Greendale

The rest

66 Beau Benzschawel 6-6 308 Fr. Grafton

74 Hayden Biegel 6-7 299 So. Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.

76 Logan Schmidt 6-4 303 Jr. Gotham, Wis.

65 Ryan Ramcyzk 6-6 297 Jr. Stevens Point

68 David Moorman 6-5 288 Fr. Northville, Mich.

69 Aidan McNamara 6-4 314 So. Madison

73 Kevin Estes 6-5 273 Fr. San Marcos, Calif.

77 Ian Dretzka 6-6 312 Fr. Delafield

78 Jason Erdmann 6-6 326 Fr. Richfield, Wis.

79 Ben Hemer 6-6 299 So. Medford

THE SKINNYThe Badgers must replace three key players: right tackle Rob Havenstein, right guard Kyle Costigan and left guard Dallas Lewallen. Marz (27 career starts) and Voltz (20) return for their third seasons as a starter, but the rest of the group is inexperienced. It didnt take Deiter long to secure a starting spot, but the other two openings on the line featured battles. Benzschawel and Biegel were the projected top two right tackles but battled injuries in camp. Kapoi emerged late in camp and moved ahead of Ball, who has played in 31 games without any starts. Williams, who has played in six career games, was moved to right tackle from left guard.

Marz

Center Dan Voltz

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTMore of the same from a unit that has developed a reputation as one of the best in the country. Marz earns first-team All-Big Ten honors and is surrounded by a group that grows up in a hurry.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTThis group wasnt a star-studded outfit last season, but the one thing it had going for it was chemistry. That cohesion doesnt come as easily with so many fresh faces and the line struggles to pave the way for the Badgers bread-and-butter ground attack.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN THE NUMBER

96Combined career starts for Rob Havenstein, Kyle Costigan and Dallas Lewallen.

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTErickson shines in his role as Staves security blanket and posts a 1,000-yard season. Stave also develops confidence in a pair of big targets, McEvoy and Wheelwright. Peavy stays healthy and provides the occasional big play.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTErickson does his part, but theres nobody else UW can count on consistently. As a result, the Badgers No. 2 wide receiver finishes with fewer than 20 receptions for the fourth consecutive season. The lack of a productive passing game puts a ton of pressure on tailback Corey Clement and the running game to make plays.

WISCONSIN STATE JOURNAL SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2015 15

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DEFENSIVE LINEMEN



DEPTH CHARTNose tackleProjected starter

94 Conor Sheehy 6-4 272 So. Milwaukee

Backup

92 Jeremy Patterson 6-3 335 Fr. Screven, Ga.

The rest

65 Olive Sagapolu 6-2 332 Fr. Huntington Beach, Calif.

74 Gunnar Roberge 6-4 299 Fr. Seymour

ObasihGoldbergSheehy

THE NUMBER

THE NUMBER

4Sacks for UWs defensive line last season, with Obasihs 1 leading the way.

100Yards lost by opponents on Landischs 16 tackles behind the line of scrimmage last season.

DEPTH CHARTInsideProjected starters

53 T.J. Edwards 6-1 238 Fr. Lake Villa, Calif.

32 Leon Jacobs 6-2 233 Jr. Santa Clarita, Calif.

Backups

50 Chris Orr 6-0 228 Fr. DeSoto, Texas

52 Kellen Jones 6-0 230 Sr. Houston

The rest

43 Ryan Connelly 6-3 233 Fr. Eden Prairie, Minn.

51 Alec Ingold 6-2 237 Fr. Green Bay

24 Keelon Brookins 5-11 213 So. St. Paul, Minn.

45 Nick Thomas 6-2 224 Fr. Bradenton, Fla.

54 Ty DeForest 6-0 220 Fr. Marshall

OutsideProjected starters

47 Vince Biegel 6-4 246 Jr. Wisconsin Rapids

58 Joe Schobert 6-2 236 Sr. Waukesha

Backups

48 Jack Cichy 6-2 223 So. Somerset

41 Jesse Hayes 6-3 233 Sr. Cincinnati

The rest

42 T.J. Watt 6-5 244 So. Pewaukee

56 Zack Baun 6-3 221 Fr. Milwaukee

55 Garret Dooley 6-3 234 So. Rochester, Ill.

59 Tyler Johnson 6-3 234 Fr. Menasha

30 Jake Whalen 6-1 229 Fr. Wausau

29 Max Praschak 6-2 198 Fr. Somerset

THE SKINNYGone are starting lineback-ers Marcus Trotter and Derek Landisch. The duo combined for 177 tackles last season, including 28 for loss, and Landisch finished with a team-high nine sacks. Edwards and Jacobs emerged from the spring as their likely replacements, but both missed time in training camp with injuries. Orr, a true freshman, had an impressive camp. Jones,

a graduate transfer from Clemson, didnt arrive in the program until late in the summer. The picture on the outside looks better with Biegel and Schobert returning.

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTBiegel and Schobert continue to wreak havoc in opponents backfields and serve as the spark for the type of turnover binge that coordinator Dave Aranda believes this defense is capable of producing. On the inside, Edwards and Jacobs grow into dependable starters with bright futures.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTThe inexperience at inside linebacker is too much to over-come and leaves the UW defense vulnerable in the middle. As good of a 1-2 punch as Biegel and Schobert are, the backups behind them are mostly unproven.


Leon Jacobs (32)

LINEBACKERS

Defensive end

Projected starters

95 Arthur Goldberg 6-3 296 Jr. Mount Lebanon, Pa.

34 Chikwe Obasih 6-3 268 So. Brookfield

Backups

93 Jake Keefer 6-3 273 Sr. Woodville, Wis.

57 Alec James 6-3 264 So. Brookfield

The rest

91 Zander Neuville 6-5 255 Fr. Waupaca

96 Billy Hirschfeld 6-6 287 Fr. Okauchee, Wis.

52 David Pfaff 6-2 257 Fr. Mequon

98 Kraig Howe 6-3 241 Fr. Dayton, Ohio

66 Kelly Thomas 6-6 246 Fr. Racine

97 Andrew Ruzek 6-6 258 Fr. Stevens Point

THE SKINNYThere wasnt a star in this group last season, though departed veter-ans Konrad Zagzebski and Warren Herring were solid. Goldberg saw his first extensive action last season and played at both tackle and end. Hell be at end this season because the coaching staff trusts Sheehy to take over on the inside. Obasih and James are potential breakout performers now that they have a full season under their belts.

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTThe no-name group does its part plugging holes and leav-ing the glamour work for outside linebackers Vince Biegel and Joe Schobert, and safety Michael Caputo.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTThe loss of Zagzebski and Herring is too much to take and a small, relatively inexperienced unit gets pushed around by physical Big Ten offenses and Alabama.

THE SKINNYThe most experienced position group on the team returns three players Hillary, Shel-ton and Caputo with a combined 79 career starts. Caputo led the team with 106 tackles last season and also recovered a team-high four fumbles. It remains to be seen how extensive McEvoys role will be as he also spends time at receiver, but Musso was active in camp and Figaro made seven starts as a true freshman last season. Even though nickel back Devin Gaulden transferred to Wake Forest for his final sea-son, the Badgers are deep at cornerback because Jamerson, who played wide receiver, has made a solid transition.

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTCaputo continues to wreak havoc as a ballhawker, but hes not the only one in the secondary. Shelton and Hillary, who were reliable cover guys last year but were part of a cornerback group that didnt register a single intercep-tion, join Caputo as playmakers in the back end.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTThere are a handful of players on this team that UW cant afford to lose for an extended stretch, and Caputo is one of them. An injury to the senior would change the dynamic of this group and the entire defense.


THE NUMBER

6Interceptions for the Badgers last season, their fewest in the modern era.



DEPTH CHARTCornerbackProjected starters

5 Darius Hillary 5-11 187 Sr. Cincinnati

8 Sojourn Shelton 5-9 176 Jr. Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Backups

12 Natrell Jamerson 6-0 191 So. Ocala, Fla.

25 Derrick Tindal 5-11 176 So. Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

The rest

29 Terrance Floyd 5-10 198 Sr. Boynton Beach, Fla.

11 T.J. Reynard 5-10 170 Sr. Virginia Beach, Va.

9 Titus Booker 5-11 187 Fr. Round Lake Beach, Ill.

26 Elijah Strong 6-0 170 Fr. Oak Creek

SafetyProjected starters

9 Michael Caputo 6-1 206 Sr. Imperial, Pa.

19 Leo Musso 5-10 186 Jr. Waunakee

Backups

31 Lubern Figaro 6-0 181 So. Everett, Mass.

14 DCota Dixon 5-10 203 So. Oak Hill, Fla.

The rest

3 Tanner McEvoy 6-6 231 Sr. Hillsdale, N.J.

36 Joe Ferguson 6-1 195 So. Madison

21 Arrington Farrar 6-2 215 Fr. Atlanta

13 Evan Bondoc 6-1 201 Fr. Madison

37 Bret Verstegen 5-11 182 Fr. Kimberly

M.P. KING State Journal archives

Michael Caputo (7)

Shelton

Figaro

Hillary

DEFENSIVE BACKS

T.J. EDWARDS REDSHIRT FRESHMAN INSIDE LINEBACKER

UWs two starting inside linebackers last season, Derek Landisch and Marcus Trotter, accounted for 28 tackles for loss and 12 sacks.

Both players are gone, and Edwards will step into Trotters Mac spot provided the shoulder injury he sus-tained in camp doesnt linger.

A year ago at this time, Edwards was still learning how to play linebacker after spending most of his high school career as a quarterback. He played some defense as a prep, but it was at safety.

But Edwards, when healthy, has impressed coaches with his ability to make plays. Hes smart, athletic and embraces the physical aspect to playing linebacker.

TANNER McEVOY SENIOR WIDE RECEIVER/SAFETY

McEvoy has been a man on the move throughout his three years with the Badgers.

He went from quarterback to wide receiver to safety and then back to quarter-back. Now, hell be asked to play on both sides of the ball.

McEvoy spent the spring at safety, where he worked alongside senior Michael Caputo on the No. 1 defense. At 6-6, 231 pounds, McEvoy gives the Badgers a big, athletic player with range on the back end of the defense.

But that size also can come in handy at wide receiver, a position in which UW needs to develop some help for senior Alex Erickson. McE-voy looked like a natural at receiver during the first week of camp and should be able to give senior quarter-back Joel Stave a big target to throw to at times.

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COREY CLEMENT JUNIOR TAILBACK

OK, so maybe youre probably thinking that Clement is too accom-plished to be on a list of breakout candidates.

Theres some truth in that. Clem-ent has more rushing yards (1,496)

and 100-yard games (seven) than five of the top backs in UW history at this point of their careers. That list includes Melvin Gordon (719; 2), Ter-rell Fletcher (942; 3), Brent Moss (958; 2),

Billy Marek (1,213; 6) and Montee Ball (1,387; 6).

But imagine what Clement can do in a featured role? The most car-ries hes logged in a game to this point is 17 while climbing the ladder from No. 3 tailback as a freshman to Gordons backup last season.

UW has had a 1,000-yard rusher in 10 consecutive seasons and 20 of the last 22. Over the past four seasons, the average output of the Badgers leading rusher is 1,987 yards.

Now its Clements turn to post some gaudy totals.

MICHAEL DEITER REDSHIRT FRESHMAN OFFENSIVE LINEMAN

Deiter has been impressing UW coaches with his composure and ability to pick up things quickly since he stepped on campus as a 17-year-old early enrollee in the winter of

2014.UW entered train-

ing camp looking to fill three open starting spots to complement senior left tackle Tyler Marz and junior center Dan Voltz. It didnt take long for

the 6-foot-6, 316-pound Deiter to secure a starting spot at right guard, where hell replace Kyle Costigan.

Marz will get most of the attention on this offensive line, but this could be the start of a stellar career for Deiter based on what hes shown to this point. The amazing part is Deiter doesnt turn 19 until September.

READY TO ROLL

Associated Press archives

Corey Clement

Clement

Deiter

Fumagalli

Edwards

McEvoy


New UW offensive coordinator Joe Rudolph will face a supreme test in the opener Alabamas defense is filled with returning players, including a front seven considered to be the nations best.

experience in many areas but will need to stay healthy in critical ones such as running back, offensive line and inside linebacker. But for the real reason 2015 has a chance to be special, look no further than the schedule.

UW opens with Alabama at Arlington, Texas, and while the Crimson Tide are angry after missing out on the national title the past two years, the Badgers found out with LSU last year that the best time to play an SEC power is right off the bat. The NFL draft took its usual bite out of Alabama, and though the replacements are often supremely talented, they also are generally raw early in the season, increasing the chances for an upset.

The rest of UWs non-conference schedule has 3-0 written all over it. Miami (Ohio), Troy and Hawaii had a combined 9-28 record last season. In its preseason rankings of the 128 FBS teams this season, sbnation.com had all three of UWs post-Alabama non-conference opponents in the bottom 13.

The Big Ten also did UW a favor when it realigned its divisions prior to last season, this time choosing geographic sanity over competitive balance. The

Badgers are in the weaker West Division, well away from traditional Big Ten powers Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State and Michigan State, all of which now reside in the East. Although games at Nebraska and Minnesota wont be easy and those with Iowa are always closely contested, UW is regarded as the team to beat in the West.

Finally, UWs two crossover opponents in Big Ten play are Maryland and Rutgers. Both fared reasonably well after joining the conference last year, but both lost senior quarterbacks and arent expected to challenge the big four in the East.

Compare that schedule to next years and you will start to understand why UW needs a sense of urgency this season. In 2016, the Badgers will start with LSU at Lambeau Field and face a much more dif-ficult Big Ten schedule. Indeed, UW will open conference play with road games at Michigan and Michigan State followed by a home game against Ohio State.

Clearly, the window of opportunity is about to slam shut on UW. Not that it cant beat any of those teams, its just that itll be a lot harder for UW to ascend to elite status when theyre all on the sched-ule at the same time.

Contact Tom Oates at [email protected] or 608-252-6172.


Oates

Five Badgers poised for breakout seasons in 2015

TROY FUMAGALLI SOPHOMORE TIGHT END

Fumagalli caught at least one pass in 12 of 14 games as a freshman and finished with 14 receptions for 187 yards.

Those numbers should go up in a Paul Chryst offense that traditionally has been friendly to tight ends.

At 6-6, 247 pounds, Fumagalli is a

big target who also is athletic and can stretch the middle of the field.

Another positive development for the UW tight end group has been the play of senior Austin Traylor, whose receiving skills have improved dramati-cally. Known more for his blocking skills he had three receptions for 24 yards as a junior Traylor also should benefit from playing in Chrysts system.


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THE NUMBER

3Players in program his-tory with at least two field goal conversions from 50 yards or more in the same season. Gaglianone joined Taylor Mehlhaff (2006) Philip Welch (2009).

DEPTH CHARTKickerProjected starter

10 Rafael Gaglianone 5-11 240 So. Sao Paulo, Brazil

Backups

97 Jack Russell 6-0 175 Sr. Waunakee

37 Andrew Endicott 5-9 172 Jr. Roseville, Calif.

39 Zach Hintze 6-0 170 Fr. Fond du Lac

PunterProjected starter

90 Drew Meyer 6-3 189 Sr. Hartland

Backups

38 P.J. Rosowski 6-3 199 Fr. Stoughton

96 Connor Allen 6-0 170 Fr. New Berlin

Long snapper

60 Connor Udelhoven 6-0 250 Jr. St. Paul, Minn.

M.P. KING State Journal archives

Drew Meyer and Rafael Gaglianone

THE SKINNYGaglianone made 14 consecutive field goals to end his freshman season and finished 19 of 22 overall. His long was a 51-yarder on his first attempt, in the opener against LSU, and he added a 50-yarder at Iowa. It wasnt such a banner year for Meyer, who averaged a career-low 37.4 yards while attempting more rugby-style kicks. Backup quarterback Bart Houston even attempted seven punts.

GLASS-IS-HALF-FULL FORECASTGaglianone picks up where he left off last season and continues to be a legitimate scoring weapon, giving UW legitimate options when drives stall at the opponents 30-yard line and beyond. The new coaching staff is a breath of fresh air for Meyer, who regains the confidence he had during a freshman season in which he averaged 41.5 yards per punt.

GLASS-IS-HALF-EMPTY FORECASTGaglianone has a sophomore slump and is incon-sistent from 40-plus yards. Meyer improves his net average but is still prone to the occasional shank that plagued him as a junior.

SPECIALISTS

WISCONSIN STATE JOURNAL SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2015 19BADGERS FOOTBALL 2015

Studen

t section

N. Bassett St.

JASON KLEIN, ART KABELOWSKY AND DENNIS McCORMICK State Journal

DAVISENTRANCE

MUELLERENTRANCE

LEAFBALDENTRANCE

KELLNER HALL

UnionSouth

Kohl Center

University Ave.

Park St.

Regent St. Regent St.

Breese Terrace

Monr

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W. Johnson St.W.

Dayto

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Frances St.N. O

rchard St.

N. Lake St.

N. Spooner St.

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Bike path

Bike path

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W. M

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McClainFacility

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FIELDHOUSE

Student section

Pressbox

Varsity Club and offices

Suites

Finding your seat

N. Randall St.

N. M

ills St.

N. Charter St.

Engineering Dr.

W. Dayton St.

Spring St.

Hoyt St.

Van Hise Ave.

Lathrop St.

Bowen Ct.

N. Brooks St.

Spring St.

Chadbourne Ave.

CampRandallStadium

Will Call for visiting team and high school coaches

1920 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 00 10

20,000

0

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000 Current capacity: 80,321

Your game-day guide: Getting into, out of and around

There are so many reasons 80,321 fans packCamp Randall Stadium for just about every University of Wisconsin home

football game. Of course, theres the excitement of Big Ten Conference football. But the location, facility and football program all have

rich histories, building traditions that are cherished today.

Major changes in seating capacity

More of a good thing

Be a part of traditionJump Around Varsity Fifth Quarter

Address: 1440 Monroe St., Madison, WI 53719

Opens: All gates open1 hours prior to kickoff.

Game-day tickets:If available, tickets can be purchased at the Athletic Ticket Office at Gate 1 in the southeast corner of the stadium.

1850s: The land where Camp Randall now sits is used by the Wisconsin Agricultural Society for the State Fair and horse races.

1861: Col. S. Park Coon, in command of the Second Wisconsin regiment, names the Civil War training camp after Gov. Alexander Randall, who appointed him.

1895: The first football game is played at Camp Randall. UW defeats Minnesota 6-0.

1896: Grandstand constructed.

1915: Legislature provides $20,000 as work begins on a new football stadium along Breese Terrace near Monoroe Street.

1917: The first game is played in the new stadium with the Badgers

defeating Beloit 34-0. The stadium is dedicated in November during the homecoming game against Minnesota in front of 10,000 fans.

1922: A fire destroys the old wooden grandstand.

1923: Concrete bleachers are added to the north and east sides of the football field.

1929: Construction on the Field House at the south end of the stadium begins.

1951: Work is completed on the north end zone seats, raising the bleachers to the same height as the main east and west sections.

1958: The playing field of Camp Randall is lowered by 10 feet allowing for the addition of more seats,

Camp Randall from the beginningbringing the capacity to 63,710. The latest renovations to the stadium eliminate the running track around the football field.

1965: The upper deck addition is completed, along with the two-story press box.

1968: Artificial turf is installed.The turf has been replacedseveral times.

1998: The Badgers defeat Purdue. The game marks the Camp Randall debut of Jump Around.

2005: The season begins with the completed renovation of Camp Randall. The cost of the four-year renovation was $109.5 million.

2012: Construction began on a $76.8 million Athletic Village.

Come for the game, stay for the party. Mike Leckrones UW Marching Band always provides a Fifth Quarter after the game.

Youll want to Jump Around with the student section at the end of the third quarter. Even the visiting teams will sometimes get into the act.

If youre a UW alum, sing alongto Varsity at the end of theUW Marching Bands halftime performance.

Will Call for Wisconsin player guests

Will Callfor public

Opens 2 hours prior to kickoff

Entrance to suites, Buckingham Club and Varsity Club

Entrance to suites, Buckingham Club and Varsity Club

State Journal archive photos

500 feetN

JASON KLEIN, ART KABELOWSKY AND DENNIS McCORMICK State JournalJASON KLEIN, ART KABELOWSKY AND DENNIS McCORMICK State JournalJASON KLEIN, ART KABELOWSKY AND DENNIS McCORMICK State JournalJASON KLEIN, ART KABELOWSKY AND DENNIS McCORMICK State JournalJASON KLEIN, ART KABELOWSKY AND DENNIS McCORMICK State Journal

A program that prides itself on national success is eager to erase 2014s unexpected finish

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. Cen-ter Ryan Kelly positioned himself in the back of the interview room of the Mal M. Moore Athletic Facility, facing his fi rst media scrum of the new season minutes after Alabama wrapped a fall camp practice on Aug. 6.

He glanced around the group of reporters, waiting out the awk-ward silence until every phone or tape recorder was pointed his way.

After a warm-up inquiry about how he com-pares his fi rst fall camp at Ala-bama to the fi nal one of his career, he took on a run of ques-tions about the Crimson Tides shortcomings from a year ago.

He spoke on the high expec-tations of the fan

base, how hungry his team is after coming one win short of a spot in the national championship game and responded to, Is winning a national championship or not the di erence between how the senior class is remembered?

Finally, he was asked if some needed reminding that Ala-bama was just eight months removed from winning the SEC championship.

I look at the ring every now and then, he said. It doesnt feel like we even won. After we lost to Ohio State, it was like all that season was for nothing.

His lack of hesitation seemed to give his answer honesty, as if that surely wasnt the fi rst time since Jan. 1 he had viewed Alabamas most recent confer-ence title in an un-meaningful

manner.As a 2011 graduate of the

university, this wasnt all that surprising to me.

When I fi rst enrolled at Ala-bama, the football program was trying its best to escape years of mediocrity. By the time I was a senior, the Tides 10-win season was considered by many as mas-sively underachieving.

More people in New York City, more people in Madison, more people in Oshkosh, you say something about the state of Alabama, they know about our football down here, said Eli Gold,

entering his 27th season as the radio voice for the Tide.

Everybody was grasping for that return to ultimate greatness, if you will. And once Nick Saban showed up and got things turned around, the expectations for many are, Youve got to go 14-0, 15-0 every year.

I traveled back to my home state earlier this month to see how those in Tuscaloosa are viewing the upcoming season opener against the University of Wisconsin.

It didnt take me long to realize that no one was thinking about

the Badgers.The focus was more internal

making sure the Tide recaptured the identity it portrayed from a few years ago.

A team that gave up 44 points to rival Auburn a month before its devastating loss to Ohio State in the College Football Playo wants to install a greater reliance on its power running game and eliminate the late-season losses that have crushed it the past two seasons.

They didnt fi nish well these last two years, said Marq Bur-nett, an Alabama beat writer for

the Anniston Star. Even Nick Saban has questioned the teams mindset, and he wonders whether teams are afraid to play Alabama anymore and whether or not they lost a little bit of that bully-on-the-block (personality) where they make teams quit and made teams fear them before the game even started.

That doesnt, however, mean the game Sept. 5 is any less important for Alabama.

The opponent may not have been front-and-center at the

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