Wisconsin Football: Five team weaknesses for 2018

2 of 6

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 02: Quarterback Alex Hornibrook #12 of the Wisconsin Badgers looks to pass against the defensive lineman Nick Bosa #97 of the Ohio State Buckeyes in the second half during the Big Ten Championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Alex Hornibrook’s immobility

The last time Wisconsin’s offense was as good as it’s expected to be this year was in 2011. The quarterback that season was Russell Wilson, who was easily the most versatile running quarterback the Badgers have had this decade. A mobile quarterback isn’t a requirement for an elite offense, but it helps a ton in emergency situations. With mobile quarterbacks, the playbook is wide open and the offense can be super creative. Hornibrook, unfortunately, isn’t expected to be that guy in 2018.

Read. Was 2011 or 2017 the best Wisconsin team ever?. light

Hornibrook did not finish a single game last season with positive rushing yards. Getting sacked counts as negative rushing yards, so that’s mostly why, but he wasn’t able to pick up enough yards to counteract those sacks once.

The Badger offense will be fine without Hornibrook running wild on defenses, it just may not be as dynamic as some of the other top offenses in the country. And when moments get tight, Hornibrook may struggle to escape pressure resulting in a big play for the defense. Wisconsin runs the ball with its running backs a lot, and most passing plays are quick reads, so Hornibrook won’t be exposed for this weakness often. Most deep passes will have Hornibrook well-protected by the stout offensive line too. Against elite rush defenses or super exotic blitzes, Hornibrook may have to prove himself to be a bit more fleet of foot than we’ve seen in the past.