Wisconsin Football Backup QB Competition Takes Center Stage

In a recent setback for the Wisconsin Badgers football team, their starting quarterback, Tanner Mordecai, sustained a hand injury that required surgery, leaving him sidelined for the foreseeable future. 

As a result, the Badgers are turning to Braedyn Locke as their starting quarterback. However, the focus now shifts to the No. 2 quarterback position, which presents a significant dilemma for the team, given the presence of multiple redshirt freshmen quarterbacks on the roster.

The team’s weekly depth chart designates Myles Burkett as the backup. Still, head coach Luke Fickell has emphasized that both Burkett and redshirt freshman transfer Nick Evers will receive opportunities in practice to showcase their abilities.

Wisconsin Football Promoting Competition for No. 2 Quarterback Job

Evaluating these backup quarterbacks is challenging, as they possess distinct differences and lack experience. Luke Fickell acknowledges these contrasts but emphasizes the need for all Wisconsin football quarterbacks to grasp the team’s offensive scheme.

Despite some teams choosing backup quarterbacks similar to their starters to ensure a smoother transition, the Badgers may not adopt this approach. Coach Fickell believes the backups’ unique attributes and experience levels outweigh the need for uniformity.

The lack of on-field experience for the backup options has hindered their development. With limited practice reps and an emphasis on scout team activities, it is challenging to assess their progress, making the Wisconsin football backup quarterback competition wide open.

Final Thoughts 

Key determinants in selecting the backup quarterback include taking care of the football and effectively managing the game. The ability to avoid turnovers and make sound decisions is paramount, as the backup should serve as a dependable game manager.

As the Wisconsin Badgers prepare for their upcoming road matchup against the Illinois Fighting Illini, they face the formidable task of resolving their quarterback situation. 

For Wisconsin football coaches, the unfortunate reality is that it involves both their starting quarterback, Braedyn Locke, and finding a competent backup amid the uncertainties created by Tanner Mordecai’s injury. 

In-state product (and Paul Chryst recruit) Myles Burkett will likely enter Saturday’s contest as the QB2. That said, Nick Evers was hand-picked by the coaching staff and is who the Badgers would likely rather see run with the opportunity. 

Locke-d and Loaded, Wisconsin Football Turns to Freshman QB

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