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

In the aftermath of Tanner Mordecai’s unfortunate injury during the Badgers 15-6 loss to Iowa, redshirt freshman Braedyn Locke walked out of Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday afternoon with the weight of the Wisconsin football program on his shoulders.

Prior to this game, Locke had only completed one pass in his college career, which came against Georgia Southern. However, against the Hawkeyes, he had to learn on the job. In his relief appearance, Locke completed 15-of-30 pass attempts, accumulating 122 yards, but he also threw an interception and lost two fumbles.

Talk about being dealt a tough hand at the blackjack table.

However, the gravity of the situation only got heavier for Locke, especially with Monday’s news from Pete Thamel and subsequent confirmation by Luke Fickell. They revealed that Mordecai indeed suffered a broken hand, requiring surgery, and his return timeline remains uncertain as of now.

Meet the New Wisconsin Football QB1: Braedyn Locke

Luke Fickell and the Wisconsin football program have no choice but to adopt the “next man up” mantra, ushering in Braedyn Locke as the Badgers starting quarterback moving forward.

In a perfect world, Locke would have had a whole year to learn under Tanner Mordecai and then assume the role of QB1 in the 2024 season. However, unforeseen circumstances threw a wrench into that plan. 

Of the young transfer quarterbacks Wisconsin football brought in from the transfer portal, Locke quickly established himself as UW’s No. 2 option due to his comprehensive understanding of the playbook and previous experience in the air raid offense. 

The former four-star recruit from Rockwall High School in Texas threw for 11,182 yards and 128 touchdowns during his illustrious prep career. Now, the 6-foot-1, 200-pound signal caller will strive to offer stability and guide a Badgers offense that, up to this point, has struggled to find its identity through six games.

Final Thoughts 

Phil Longo and the Wisconsin football coaching staff must tailor the offensive game plan around Braedyn Locke and his skill set. 

While Locke is known for his accuracy, sound decision-making, and high football IQ, he’s also far less mobile than Tanner Mordecai and won’t be an option for designed run plays. 

The Texas native has showcased a respectable arm, capable of executing all the necessary throws within Wisconsin’s new offensive scheme. But for things to click on all cylinders, the offensive line must do a better job in pass protection to give Locke plenty of time & clean pockets to throw from. 

Against Iowa, the Wisconsin football quarterback completed just 3-of-13 passes for 16 yards and a pick when the Hawkeyes sent a blitz, according to PFF. 

Executing quick hitters in the passing game — and getting Braelon Allen & Jackson Acker involved early will be paramount in helping this team establish any cohesion to build on moving forward. 

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