Is Jake Renfro playing today vs. Alabama? Star center's status revealed

UPDATE: Jake Renfro is active and playing against Alabama.

Jake Renfro is a huge key to being able to have success this season and today against Alabama. He got injured in the Wisconsin fall camp. He sat out most of the camp but was able to make it back for the game against Miami (OH). Something popped up on him that pushed him out against Middle Tennessee. Now the question is, will he play for Wisconsin today against Alabama?

According to Pete Thamel, he's expected to play. He's been a game-time decision all week, and there will be a decision made right up at game-time, but it appears he's good to go for the game.

Jake Renfro is the most important player for the Wisconsin offensive line and is needed to face Alabama

Related: The ideal offensive line that Luke Fickell needs to play in order to beat Alabama

The offense needs Jake Renfro; the line struggled in the interior last week against Middle Tennessee and made it hard for the Badgers to get the run game going. Backup lineman Kerry Kodanko got the start at center and struggled to find a rhythm and get his blocks off in time all game.

The Badgers also put Colin Cubberly in at right guard and could use the veteran leadership of Renfro. Cubberly played well, but not great, and could use the backup and assistance of a star center like Renfro.

It's a long shot for the Badgers to beat Alabama, but it would be even more of a long shot without Renfro. If they can't get the offense going, there's really no chance to beat the Crimson Tide. The running game will need Renfro and a good line, and backup quarterback Danny O'Neil will need time to be able to get through his reads.

Wisconsin vs. Alabama kicks off at 11am CT on ABC. The game is played at Bryant-Denny Stadium.