Badger of Honor is taking a closer look at the elements of Wisconsin’s running backs. Last time we got to know sophomore Garrett Groshek. This time we will dive into senior running back Taiwan Deal.
The 2015 season was an off year for the Badgers’ running game. First-string running back Corey Clement had an abysmal season, leaving it up to Dare Ogunbowale and freshman Taiwan Deal to handle the load.
Deal didn’t disappoint as he ran for 503 yards and six touchdowns in his first season as a Badger. His best game came against Hawaii, where he rushed for 147 yards and two touchdowns. It almost seemed like the next great Badger running back had taken the reigns.
Unfortunately, 2016 was a letdown for Deal. Clement came back with a vengeance and Ogunbowale was second in the depth chart thanks to his catching abilities. Plus, a bruising freshman running back named Bradrick Shaw came in and wowed Badger coaches.
Deal found himself at the bottom end of the depth chart, only rushing for 164 yards and no touchdowns. A leg injury in 2017 kept him off the field for the entire season, continuing his bad luck.
Recruiting
Deal was ranked 27th in the nation at his position in the 2014 class. The three-star recruit held as many as 17 offers from schools like Iowa, Penn State, Ohio State and Michigan.
He was awarded the Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year in 2013 (247 Sports). Here are some highlights from his National Signing Day video:
As you can see by the video, Deal is a tall, strong running back who is capable of making big plays. Hopefully he has the chance in 2018 to show what he can do.
Looking ahead to 2018
Deal is going to be looking for redemption next year. As a senior, it’s his last chance to prove himself on the field. We already know that Jonathan Taylor and Chris James will lead the backfield, but beyond them, it looks like Deal will battle for playing time with Shaw and Groshek.
If Deal can stay healthy, he should get plenty of opportunity to run the ball. Unfortunately it will probably come in late blowout games or, heaven forbid, injuries to one of the top running backs.
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Stat prediction for 2018: 75 rushes for 350 yards and four touchdowns.