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Wisconsin Football: Key matchups to watch vs. BYU

By Steven Tondi

MADISON, WI - SEPTEMBER 08: Jonathan Taylor #23 of the Wisconsin Badgers celebrates a touchdown with Tyler Biadasz #61 during the second half against the New Mexico Lobos at Camp Randall Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
MADISON, WI - SEPTEMBER 08: Jonathan Taylor #23 of the Wisconsin Badgers celebrates a touchdown with Tyler Biadasz #61 during the second half against the New Mexico Lobos at Camp Randall Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Wisconsin OL vs BYU DL

The Wisconsin offensive line showed why they can be one of the most dominating units in college football last week.  After a decent first half, Michael Deiter and the gang completely bullied New Mexico’s front seven in the second half.  The effects of running the ball so many times in the first half were apparent when the Lobos defensive line was getting blown off the line play after play.

It was the kind of performance that Badger fans always cherish and celebrate.  The offensive linemen are the unheralded leaders of our team, and it was awesome to see them show off their talent like that.

Redshirt sophomore Cole Van Lanen continues to impress his coaches and his teammates.  His versatility in both the running and passing game is a huge asset at left tackle.  Van Lanen’s presence is beneficial to Wisconsin on two fronts.  Wisconsin is getting strong play at an important position but also has the luxury of resting veteran Jon Dietzen.

Dietzen’s injury history has been well documented, injuries he continues to be hampered by.  If Van Lanen can continue to play well and give Dietzen time to recover, the Badgers can have two starting-caliber left tackles towards the end of the year.  Given the grind of the Big Ten schedule, a healthy Dietzen may be necessary.

BYU’s defensive line is filled by some big boys who are not easily moved.  In their victory against Arizona, the defensive line pushed around the Wildcats’ offensive line all night.  They consistently disrupted Khalil Tate’s timing and never allowed him to get into a groove.  Their defensive ends played well in containing Tate and the Arizona running backs from getting to the outside.

The Cougars have pretty good depth along the defensive line as well.  Defensive end Corbin Kaufusi is the most talented of the group but it is impossible not to recognize 340-pound nose tackle Khyiris Tonga.  He is a load in the middle and will need to be handled by Tyler Biadasz and the two guards Deiter and Benzschawel.

This will be a great test for the Wisconsin offensive line, especially with Iowa coming the game after.  BYU may not have the talent up front Iowa has, but they resemble the size and strength that Iowa possesses.  The way the Badgers play along the offensive line against BYU will be a great indicator of what to expect for the rest of the season.  This is going to be an extremely physical matchup and one that I am excited to watch.