Wisconsin Football: Unraveling the Mystery of the O-Line and Predicting Improvements
Wisconsin football fans have been buzzing with questions about the state of the program during spring practices. One major concern is the depth of the offensive line. Just a few years ago, there were worries about not having enough reps to go around due to the surplus of talented players on the second and third teams. So, how did things change so drastically? The answer lies in a series of transfers and departures.
Two key players, Nolan Rucci and Trey Wedig, decided to transfer, as did reserve lineman Dylan Barrett. Additionally, Michael Furtney and Tanor Bortolini left due to eligibility and NFL aspirations. Wedig, in particular, was a significant loss as he started eight games last season. Rucci, who served as the backup left tackle, saw limited opportunities with Jack Nelson returning, leading him to transfer to Penn State.
In a hypothetical scenario where these players had stayed, Wisconsin would have had 15 scholarship offensive linemen. However, the team did not add any offensive linemen during the first transfer portal window. Nevertheless, they did sign five offensive linemen in the 2024 class.
During the first five practices, the first-team offense showcased an experienced and talented group consisting of Jack Nelson, Joe Brunner, Jake Renfro, Joe Huber, and Riley Mahlman. All but Brunner started in the bowl game. The challenge for the coaches now lies in determining how to handle the backup positions in case of injuries, as the rest of the offensive linemen have a combined total of only 33 snaps on the O-line.
The absence of three signed offensive linemen who will arrive on campus later and an injured Barrett Nelson has greatly affected the depth chart. As a result, six non-scholarship players are currently working in the second and third units.
Wisconsin has been mixing up its offensive line rotations during practice. Brunner has been taking snaps at left tackle and right tackle, allowing Benzschawel to play left guard. Huber has also been given opportunities at center, providing depth behind Renfro. The second-team unit often includes freshman early enrollee Kevin Heywood, redshirt freshman James Durand, walk-on Kerry Kodanko, Benzschawel, and walk-on Peyton Lange.
Head coach Luke Fickell acknowledged the need to build depth on the offensive line due to the departures of key players. He emphasized the importance of preparing capable backups to fill in for potential injuries.
One area of concern last season was the performance of the passing game, which many attribute to the loss of Jake Renfro. The development of a No. 2 “true” center is crucial for the team. If Renfro was unavailable, Huber would likely move to center, and Benzschawel would step in at right guard. Other centers in the mix include Kodanko and freshman early enrollee Colin Cubberly.
Although it is still early in spring camp, a few early enrollees have stood out. Kevin Heywood, a four-star prospect and the sixth-ranked offensive tackle in the country, has impressed as he plays left tackle with the second-team offense. Outside linebacker Thomas Heiberger and slot receiver Kyan Berry-Johnson have also caught the attention of coaches with their performances.
As for the quarterback room, it is unlikely that Wisconsin will lose any quarterbacks during the spring transfer portal window. Tyler Van Dyke and Braedyn Locke are competing for the starting job, while Mabrey Mettauer is still adjusting to the offense as a freshman early enrollee. The other two quarterbacks on scholarship, Nick Evers and Cole LaCrue, are also part of the team.
Looking ahead to next season, there are areas where the team could see improvements. Wide receiver Will Pauling had a breakout season and will continue to be a focal point in the offense. The addition of true slot receiver Trech Kekahuna complements Pauling’s skills. Bryson Green has the potential to be more productive, and consistency from the other wideouts will be key.
Quarterback play has the potential to improve, depending on how well Tyler Van Dyke adapts to the offense. The running back position offers plenty of intrigue, especially with Chez Mellusi fitting well into the system before his injury last season.
Compared to last year, the team appears to be performing at a higher level during spring practices. The learning curve was slowed last year due to the installation of a new system on both offense and defense. However, with many returning players and a more competitive environment, the team is showing increased intensity and attention to detail.
Overall, Wisconsin football fans can expect improvements in various positions, including the offensive line, wide receiver, quarterback play, and running back. With the team’s continued efforts in spring practices, they aim to have a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses heading into the fall season.