Billy Edwards Jr. worked all week to get back to take on his former team, Maryland. Yet, he clearly wasn't 100% as in the second drive, he had to throw the ball out of bounds to avoid a sack, and then he limped off. He was then seen being checked by trainers and riding an exercise bike.
Luke Fickell, before the game, said that Wisconsin had a plan to play both quarterbacks, and that alone signalled that Edwards wasn't fully ready. But probably showcased how badly Edwards wanted to play against his former team. He may have convinced Fickell to let him in the game and play.
Billy Edwards Jr. leaves limping against Maryland and then Danny O'Neil throws an interception
Related: Luke Fickell plays with fire over controversial Billy Edwards Jr. decision vs. Terps
However, that isn't the smartest decision for his future, as Wisconsin has a bye week next week, and he would have more time to heal before Michigan in Ann Arbor. Fickell had alluded all week that the biggest task for Edwards' recovery was "protecting Edwards from himself."
Shortly after, Edwards limped off the field, and O'Neil threw a costly pick that almost led to a defensive touchdown for Maryland. It ended up being a rushing touchdown for Terrapin quarterback Malik Washington. It was costly, and you have to wonder if the cycling of quarterbacks was costly to the rhythm of either, especially young gun slinger Danny O'Neil.
It will be something to monitor as the game goes along to see if Billy Edwards Jr. comes back in. As of the third drive, it was more of O'Neil as Edwards was seen riding the exercise bike.
Fickell and Wisconsin really just need to get O'Neil going and let him find the rhythm he needs to help the Badgers win this game against Maryland.