Wisconsin running backs coach Devon Spalding has left to take the same role with Michigan State, leaving Luke Fickell and the Badgers with an opening on the staff. While there's plenty of directions to go for the hire, there's one person that coaches and fans alike would adore. However, there's one major hurdle to get over.
Former Badger running back James White has been brought up multiple times among fans for the job. He was beloved as a player, and already has some collegiate level coaching experience at Illinois. By all accounts, it would be a great fit for the parties involved, but it would mean White would have to leave his current post after just a few weeks.
Earlier last month, it was announced that White would step away from his role with Bret Bielema and Illinois to take the head coach job at Benet Academy. Taking the role with Wisconsin would mean leaving Benet before ever coaching a snap.
James White would be a great hire for Wisconsin, but the obstacles may be too great
To lure White away from a brand new head coaching job would be tough. Especially considering he already left his former coach, Bielema, in order to take it. That's not to say the Badgers couldn't get something done, but it feels very unlikely at this point.
Had the Wisconsin job opened up a few months ago, it might be a different story. But now the dream feels just like that, a dream. In all likelihood, Fickell and company will have to turn their attention elsewhere to fill the job.
White was a standout for the Badgers, rushing for 4,015 yards and 48 touchdowns during his time at Wisconsin. He then went on to have a successful professional career with the New England Patriots where he won three Super Bowls.