Wisconsin Football: X-factors in each position group

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 02: Chris James #5 of the Wisconsin Badgers reaches for a touchdown against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Big Ten Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 02: Chris James #5 of the Wisconsin Badgers reaches for a touchdown against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Big Ten Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 02: Running back Jonathan Taylor (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

David Edwards

Edwards is going to start at right tackle and protect the Alex Hornibrook’s blind side. He’ll be a big factor in the run game, as will the rest of the offensive line, but protecting Hornibrook in passing situations is what sets him apart from the rest of his group.

Edwards is going to be tasked with matching up against some of the best pass rushers in the country. He’ll have to be on his toes every week and will be under the most scrutiny if the line breaks down. He was injured in the Big Ten Championship last year against Ohio State and it showed in his, and the line’s, play. He must have the itch to redeem himself.

Edwards is also going to be playing for NFL scouts this year. He’s one of the best offensive line prospects in college football and will surely want to prove it to any future employers.

The right side of Wisconsin’s line is also likely to be the side that sees the most action in the run game. Edwards will play alongside Beau Benzschawel, who is regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in the country. Jonathan Taylor will see gaps big enough to drive trains through thanks to these two behemoths.

There will be a lot of eyes on Edwards and tons of pressure to lead a successful offensive line. It’s the best group on the roster and the one thing that, above all else, Wisconsin can lean on to win football games.