Five players to watch for Wisconsin Football vs. BYU

MADISON, WI - AUGUST 31: Jonathan Taylor #23 of the Wisconsin Badgers celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Camp Randall Stadium on August 31, 2018 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

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MADISON, WI – SEPTEMBER 30: Isaiahh Loudermilk (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

Isaiahh Loudermilk was back in the lineup last week against New Mexico and will be in it again this week. Badger fans had initially hoped he would be ready to go for the game against Iowa in week four, but a return earlier than planned isn’t anything to be upset about.

Loudermilk played well but is also being brought up to speed. The defensive end position isn’t very deep and although he may be needed now, he’ll be needed more later on. Getting him back to 100% health and prime game shape is most important right now.

He’s a talented player and was somebody I thought could have a great year. He still can, but his impact will be felt most in the weeks following this game. I believe the coaching staff will keep Loudermilk under close watch until Iowa where he’ll be a full go and can help the Badgers get to 1-0 in Big Ten play.

Loudermilk is on this list because I want to see if his experience from last year can help improve the play of the defensive line as a whole. He can free up a lot for the rest of the defense without making big plays individually. Those guys are some of the most valuable to a defense despite never getting the praise or recognition.