Wisconsin Football: Three superlatives from week one

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MADISON, WI – AUGUST 31: Alex Hornibrook #12 of the Wisconsin Badgers drops back to pass in the first quarter against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Camp Randall Stadium on August 31, 2018 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

Alex Hornibrook’s Finesse with his Feet

Coming into the new season, few other Big Ten players had more pressure on them than Alex Hornibrook. The off-season narratives around him winning QB camps and trying to limit his knack for turnovers came to a close on the first Friday night of the season, as he put on a show for the 70,000 plus Wisconsin faithful – myself included – who were in attendance. With another year under his belt, it’s clear to see the confidence that exudes from Hornibrook as he breaks the huddle. His presence and command of the offense look so much better this year than in previous seasons, and it showed in his stats. Hornibrook finished 17/29 for over 250 yards and two touchdowns per ESPN. Perhaps the best stat found in the box score was the big zero in the interception column.

And while Hornibrook continued his accuracy in the pocket, I came away particularly impressed by his execution on the run and from awkward throwing positions. There were several designed rollouts where Hornibrook calmly went through his reads and delivered pin-point perfect passes. He also showcased a bit more elusiveness in the pocket, stepping up to avoid the rush and delivering the ball quickly and efficiently on the move. All of these are good signs for Badger fans.