Rohan from Bucky’s 5th Quarter answers my questions.
As we continue to march toward Saturday’s game against the Badgers, ugh, I reached out to the folks at Bucky’s 5th Quarter and Rohan agreed to answer some questions. Some serious and some not so serious.
I’m struggling to get a real read on who Wisconsin is right now. They’ve not beat anyone noteworthy but their two losses have come at highly ranked opponents. How would you rate this Wisconsin team?
They’re a team still looking to find its footing, especially after the season-ending injury to starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke. Last weekend’s game against USC was a tale of two halves, as the Badgers had their best half of football this year in the first 30 minutes, going up 21-10 at halftime, thanks to explosive plays in the air and a bend-don’t-break defense. But, they collapsed in the second half, getting outscored 28-0 and dropped to 2-2. At the moment, they’re not a bad team, but they lack an identity on either side of the ball.
Wisconsin historically is a team that smashes you in the mouth and runs the football down your throat. Right now they’ve got 622 rushing yards compared with 727 passing yards. Can Purdue fans still expect that classic Wisconsin formula or has their staff fully changed their identity?
The staff has changed the identity for sure, but the results may end up being similar. Wisconsin has been adamant about wanting to run the football this year, as their strongest unit is the offensive line and the team has a plethora of talented running backs that have seen reps this year. However, opposing defenses are selling out against the run, given the team’s inconsistencies through the air, which has required the Badgers to try and find ways for more offensive success. That was seen in the first half last week, but the offense sputtered in the second half, and Wisconsin lost by double digits. I’d expect a balanced approach with Wisconsin still looking to lean on the run, but also working up-tempo in the passing game to try and get an advantage over their opponents.
The Wisconsin offensive line has allowed just 5 sacks this season. How has that unit continued to be such a strength year after year? Is it all the cheese?
It’s the best unit on the team currently. The offensive line has really shined, especially in pass protection, as they allowed just three pressures against USC overall last week. Now, a part of it is the quarterbacks getting the ball out quickly, but when you watch the games back, it’s empty pocket after empty pocket in the backfield. The biggest key to this group is experience. Tackles Jack Nelson and Riley Mahlman are both NFL-caliber prospects and have several years of starting experience each. Right guard Joe Huber has been a multi-year starter at both Cincinnati and Wisconsin, while center Jake Renfro was a first-team All-AAC player at Cincinnati two seasons ago. The only inexperienced piece is left guard Joe Brunner, who has been one of the more hyped offensive line prospects in recent memory for Wisconsin, and could’ve started playing last year even.
What can you tell me about the Mars Cheese Castle? One of my favorite places to drive by but I’ve never gone inside.
While I personally have never been up there, it just has the feel of a Wisconsin classic. Cheese, brats, and beer.
What’s your go-to Culver’s order?
If I’m feeling good, got to go with the value basket with some fries and get a mixer or malt for the drink.
Who are the key players on both offense and defense for this year’s Wisconsin squad?
Offensively, the Badgers strengths come with their offensive line and plethora of running backs, although there hasn’t really been a clear cut option for the latter. Then, you have to include star wideout Will Pauling, who is leading the team in receiving yet again. Defensively, safety Hunter Wohler is both one of the top players and a leader on the team. The cornerback unit, spearheaded by Nyzier Fourqurean and Ricardo Hallman, is also an important group for Wisconsin to man the secondary.
What are the weaknesses of this Wisconsin team on both sides of the ball? Are there areas that Purdue can try to exploit?
Offensively, Wisconsin is still finding its way with both facets of the game. With their passing attack, it’s too inconsistent. They haven’t found enough explosive plays yet, making it tough to convert on situations like 3rd & Longs. Then, in the run game, with opponents focusing more on that element, it hasn’t been efficient enough.
Defensively, Wisconsin has struggled to defend the run, which could be an area for Purdue to target with star Devin Mockabee, as the Badgers have really seen issues with stretch runs to the outsides.
It’s been over two decades since Purdue beat Wisconsin in football. Can you just let us have one?
Unfortunately, don’t see it coming this weekend.
Finally, what’s your prediction for Saturday?
While Wisconsin still has a number of questions, I don’t see them losing here in a get-back game after two consecutive losses. The offense could find more of a groove in relying on the ground game, while the defense may struggle in defending the run, but ultimately won’t break when it comes to scoring chances.
I’ll go with 27-14 Wisconsin.