Last season the Badger offense only scored 22.2 points per game, or 101st in the nation. Despite some bad injury luck, the offense underperformed immensely, and change needed to happen. This season, with a new scheme and plenty of new faces, there's reason for hope. So what can we get excited about in 2025?
Offensive Coordinator Jeff Grimes
After the firing of Phil Longo, Wisconsin brought in Jeff Grimes from Kansas. While he didn't exactly blow the doors off at Kansas, he promises a tough, physical brand of football which is something every Badger fan can get behind. The Air Raid simply didn't work at Wisconsin, and many folks are eager to get back to what Wisconsin does best: running the rock. Well good news Badger fans, last year under Grimes Kansas had the 16th ranked rushing attack, while Wisconsin ranked a measly 73rd. It's safe to say that this year will look a lot more like the days of ole.
Improved Quarterback Situation
Nothing went right last year at quarterback for Wisconsin. After starter Tyler Van Dyke went down with an injury, backup Braedyn Locke simply just wasn't the guy. This year things are in a much better place. Starter Billy Edwards Jr. is primed to have one of the better seasons for a Badger signal caller in recent memory, but don't forget about the guys on the bench. Backup Danny O'Neil has starting experience already as just a sophomore, and four-star freshman Carter Smith could be the future at the position. Quarterback should be one of the last positions to worry about on this roster.
Youth Movement
Wisconsin has several young players who could make a huge impact on offense this season. Second-year running backs Darrion Dupree and Dilin Jones figure to play a large part in this year's backfield. Both were used sparingly in 2024, but the expectation in 2025 is that one or both could carry the load depending on the usage of upperclassman Cade Yacamelli. One true freshman to watch is wide receiver Eugene Hilton, who really flashed in the spring. While he won't lock in a starting role, he's probably the most likely freshman to see the field in year one on offense and looks every bit of the player coaches hoped he would be.